Prevent Heat Illness at Work

Outdoor & Indoor Heat Exposure Is Dangerous

It’s time to remind your employees that it’s getting hot outside … Remember to Hydrate

The attached OSHA poster/flyer reminds you about heat illness prevention … and will help you initiate employee meetings to ensure that they understand ways to remain safe when out of doors in the hot sun.

http://www.calworksafety.com helps employers introduce a heat illness plan (already an option in your retainer agreement with us). If you require updates or retraining, we help you organize a program that best suits your company and employees.

Why This Is So Important:

Nearly 3 out of 4 heat illness fatalities happen during the first week of work. New and returning workers can build heat tolerance by taking frequent breaks and working shorter shifts in the heat. Dangerous heat exposure can occur indoors or outdoors, in any season. Employers can ensure workers safe by following the following safety practices:

  • Follow the 20% Rule — on the 1st day, don’t allow employees to work more than 20% of a shift at full intensity in the heat. Increase their time by no more than 20% a day until they are used to working in the heat.
  • Provide cool drinking water – encourage workers to drink at least one cup every 20 minutes, even if they are not thirsty.
  • Rest breaks — allow workers time to recover from heat in a shady or cool location.
  • Dress for the heat — have workers wear a hat and light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing if possible.
  • Watch out for each other — encourage workers to monitor themselves and others for signs of heat illness.
  • Look for any signs of heat illness, including fainting, dizziness, nausea, and muscle spasms, and act quickly — when in doubt, call 911.
  • Offer training on the hazards of heat exposure and how to prevent illness.
  • Develop an Emergency Action Plan on what to do if a worker shows signs of heat-related illness.

Don Dressler – Consultant & Attorney at Law 

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