Heat Stress Awareness


	Acclimated
	•The human body can adapt to heat exposure up to a point. After acclimatization, the same activity will produce lower cardiovascular demands. The worker will sweat more efficiently (causing better evaporative cooling), may lose less salt, and thus will more easily maintain normal body temperatures.
	•OSHA recommends five days for acclimatization.
	•Some heat acclimatization can be lost when individuals are removed from hot environments for periods as short as two weeks
	•Shifting heavier work to cooler parts of the day
	•Rotating work assignments among crews
	Fluid Replacement
	•Ample supplies of liquids should be placed close to the work area
	•One cup every 20 minutes
	•Start drinking water before the beginning of the work period.
	•Water is the first choice for rehydrating. Drinks containing electrolytes such as Gatorade, Squincher, etc.; can be used, providing they are not the sole source of fluid at the work site. (Individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, or on a low sodium diet should consult a physician before drinking electrolyte containing drinks such as Gatorade and Squincher. All others may drink in moderation.)
	Training
	•Training is the key to good work practices. If all employees do not understand the reasons for using new or changing old work practices, the chances of such a program succeeding are greatly reduced
	• Knowledge of the hazards of heat stress.
	•Recognition of predisposing factors, danger signs, and symptoms.
	•Awareness of first-aid procedures for and potential health effects of heat stroke.
	•Employee responsibilities in avoiding heat stress.
	•Dangers of the use of drugs, including therapeutic ones, and alcohol in hot work environments.
	•Use of protective clothing and equipment.
	•Purpose and coverage of any environmental and medical surveillance programs and the advantages of worker participation in such a program.
	Body Cooling
	•Ice Vests-The cooling offered by ice packets lasts only two-four (or less) hours at moderate to heavy heat loads, making frequent replacement necessary. However, ice vests do not encumber the worker with air supply or power cords, permitting maximum mobility. Cooling with ice is also relatively inexpensive.
	Respirator Usage
	•The use of self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) itself and its additional weight adds to stress to the worker, and this stress will contribute to the overall heat stress of the worker.
	•Chemical protective clothing such as totally encapsulated chemical protection suits will also add to the heat stress problem.
	•Frequent shifts of workers may be necessary