Health and Safety Manager with 20+ Years Experience Committed to Protecting Employees and Boosting Productivity
WORKING IN HOT ENVIRONMENTS Workers who are exposed to extreme heat or work in hot environments may be at risk of heat stress. Exposure to extreme heat can result in occupational illnesses and injuries. Heat stress can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes. Heat can also increase the risk of injuries in workers as it may result in sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, and dizziness. Burns may also occur as a result of accidental contact with hot surfaces or steam. Workers should avoid exposure to extreme heat, sun exposure, and high humidity when possible. When these exposures cannot be avoided, workers should take the following steps to prevent heat stress: • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as cotton. • Gradually build up to heavy work. • Schedule heavy work during the coolest parts of day. • Take more breaks in extreme heat and humidity. • Take breaks in the shade or a cool area when possible. • Drink water frequently. Drink enough water that you never become thirsty. Approximately 1 cup every 15-20 minutes. • Avoid alcohol, and drinks with large amounts of caffeine or sugar. • Monitor your physical condition and that of your coworkers. #safety #safetytips #safetyfirst #safetyawareness #safetymatters #safetytraining #safetyatwork #safetyculture #safetyofficer #OHS #HSE #hazard #HazardousConditions #hazardousarea #workplacesafety #heat #heatstress #heatstressawareness #HeatAwareness #heatstroke #HeatStrokeAwareness #heatstrokeprevention #hotenvironment #extremeheat #HeatRisk #healthhazard