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Construction Worker Drinking Water

Heat-related illnesses are cause for concern and summer crew safety is an important topic. With summer now in full force, it’s time for a refresher on the best ways to beat the heat at work. Keep in mind that severe heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion can occur for several days after dehydration from exposure to high temperatures, according to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, whether you work outdoors as a scaffolder, inside a steel mill, or work year-round in high-temperature places like underground mines.

Earlier this year we shared 5 Tips for Crew Safety in the Winter and it’s time for an update. In this post our Health and Safety Manager, Matthew, shares some important tips on summer crew safety when working in the heat.

Top 10 warning signs of heat stroke

Symptoms of heat stress can range from mild heat rash or sunburn to severe heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 

  1. Extremely high body temperature
  2. Hot, dry, skin – an inability to cool the body through perspiration may cause the skin to feel dry
  3. Increased heart and respiration rates as blood pressure drops and the heart attempts to maintain adequate circulation
  4. Throbbing headache, nausea or vomiting due to dehydration
  5. Weakness, fainting, or dizziness – especially if standing position is assumed quickly – due to low blood pressure from dehydration
  6. Muscle cramps
  7. Dark-coloured urine – a sign of dehydration
  8. Confused, hostile, or seemingly intoxicated behavior
  9. Pale or bluish skin colour in advanced cases due to constricted blood vessels
  10. Seizures or unconsciousness

What to do if you suspect heat exhaustion or stroke

  • Get medical aid
  • Move to air-conditioned environment or at least a cool, shaded area
  • Loosen or remove unnecessary clothing
  • Drink plenty of cool water
  • Fan and spray with cool water

How to protect yourself against heat stress

Sometimes it’s difficult to self-recognize heat stress, so it’s important to use a buddy system at work to keep an eye on each other and spot potential heat stress symptoms, team work matters when it comes to summer crew safety.

  • When possible, avoid working in hot areas and in full sun
  • Take frequent breaks
  • Use sunblock with at least SPF 15 and re-apply every two hours
  • Cover up with long-sleeve shirt, hat
  • Increase fluid intake
  • Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine
  • Reduce activity when exposed to heat
  • Use buddy system to watch for symptoms
  • Increase salt intake (if doctor approves)

How employers can protect workers against heat stress

  • Train workers in heat stress awareness and first aid
  • Frequent toolbox talks to discuss the risks and dangers of heat stress
  • Provide drinking water
  • Provide rest breaks and air-conditioned rest areas if possible
  • Post urine colour chart in washrooms to raise awareness about hydration
  • Encourage to drink water
  • Indoors, provide fans for air movement
  • Use machines to reduce physical demands of work
  • Schedule most strenuous work to cooler times of the day

Measure daily Humidex ratings and have a Humidex Heat Stress Response Plan

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