Heat prostration prevention is something every employer should be aware of. With much of the nation currently in a dangerous heat wave, we at Security Specialists want you and your staff to recognize the signs of heat prostration otherwise known as heat exhaustion.
Causes of heat prostration include exposure to high temperatures, particularly when combined with high humidity, and strenuous physical activity. Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition. Heat exhaustion prevention is possible, however, if you know what to look for. If you notice one of your workers standing to the side of a project, leaning heavily against an object while rubbing a cramp out of his leg or arm and then stumbling or weaving backward, you need to react.
Since workers rarely recognize the signs of heat exhaustion in themselves, it’s important that colleagues and co-workers know the signs so they can convince the worker of what is happening.
Symptoms of heat prostration include:
- muscle cramps
- heavy sweating
- dizziness
- confusion
- fatigue
- nausea (and vomiting)
- cool moist skin with goose bumps when in the heat
- low blood pressure upon standing
- headache
- weak, rapid pulse
- pale, clammy skin
- excessive thirstiness
If you notice a worker experiencing any of these symptoms, follow these five tips to help the worker get relief:
- Have them stop all activity and rest
- Move them to a cooler, shady (or air-conditioned) spot
- Loosen or remove tight tool belts, harnesses, other articles of clothing, etc.
- Give them plenty of fluids such as water or sports drinks (not caffeine)
- Place a cool, wet towel on his neck or face
- If they don’t recover in 15 minutes, rush them to the emergency room
