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Beat The Heat Together!

May 2nd, 2022 by Jackie Baxley

It’s happened to just about all of us.  Maybe it was from working in the yard, maybe attending a sporting event, maybe even from a day in the park.  What am I talking about?  Heat related illness!

It can start with a headache, dizziness, or muscle cramps and can quickly escalate to more serious symptoms.  Heat related injury and illness can be so dangerous that OSHA has recently launched a National Emphasis Program to protect workers from indoor and outdoor heat hazards and has started the rule making process for a new standard on heat related injuries and illness.

What can you do to protect yourself, and your workers, from the hazards associated with heat?  Water, Rest, Shade.

• Water:  Drink at least 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes while working in the heat, even if you are not thirsty.  If working for 2 hours or more, consider additional fluids that contain electrolytes.
• Rest: When the potential for heat stress is high, take breaks.  So how often and for how long should these breaks be?  Well, that depends on several factors including the heat stress, the individual, the physical activity level, and the individuals personal risk factors.  In general, hourly breaks should be taken when working in the heat. Also keep in mind, workers will need to acclimate to the heat over time.   Allow new or returning workers to gradually increase workloads and take more breaks as they acclimate to the heat.
• Shade:  Ensure you have access to a cool location for these breaks.  Provide air-conditioned spaces (building or vehicle),  a shady area (under a tree or a tent), and/or an area with a fan or misting device.

This month HRP will be providing information on heat hazards, how you can prepare and how you can respond.  We will be hosting a webinar with more information on OSHA action relative to heat.

So, grab that giant water bottle and join us this month as we beat the heat together!

Jackie Baxley, PE, EHS Practice Leader at HRP Associates, Inc.