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Safety Bulletin: Heat Stress

As the summer months approach and the mercury begins to rise, Rogers Group, wants to insure that everyone is aware of the dangers of Heat Stress.

Heat stress is responsible for about 175 deaths annually in the United States. That is more than Tornadoes and Hurricanes combined. This number is staggering when heat related injuries and deaths could be avoided with good healthy behaviors.

As the culture at RGI continues to change into a Zero Injury Safety Culture, we need to be sure to use safe and healthy judgments to prevent illnesses heat related or otherwise.

The following physical factors increase heat related illnesses:

Previous Heat Related Illnesses
Alcohol and caffeine consumption, causes water loss in the body and dehydration occurs which leads to heat related illness.
Certain Medical conditions and some medication can increase the risk of heat related illness. (Consult your physician about this issue.)
Poor physical condition
Lack of acclimatization, it takes about two weeks to build up tolerance to the heat

The following are some tips to prevent heat stress:

Don't become dehydrated, drink plenty of water (don't wait until you feel thirsty)
Try to find a cool shady area to take a break, (provide shade where no natural shade is available.)
Perform work in the cool parts of the day, when applicable
Use sunscreen, it's a simple way to prevent skin cancer.
Ask your co-workers how they are feeling.
Communicate to all employees when temperatures and humidity approach hazardous levels.

Symptoms of Heat Stress: Nausea, Vomiting, Headaches, Rapid Heart Rate, Weakness, Breathing Difficulty, Dizziness, Chills Heat illness can be prevented with good work habits. Remember heat-related risks when doing your JSA's and audits. Review this bulletin in a daily safety meeting.

Heat Index 90º - 100º
Sunstroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are possible with prolonged exposure and physical activity.

Heat Index 101º - 129º
Sunstroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely. Heat stroke possible with prolonged exposure and physical activity.

Heat Index 130º Or Higher
Heat Stroke or sunstroke imminent

*IMPORTANT: Since heat index values were devised for shady, light wind conditions, EXPOSURE TO FULL SUNSHINE CAN INCREASE H.I. VALUES BY UP TO 15ºF. Also STRONG WINDS, PARTICULARLY VERY SHORT, DRY AIR, CAN BE EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS.