Safety in Warm Conditions

As seasoned employees, we are accustomed to working in warm conditions. We have acclimated to these work environments, understand what to expect, and respond appropriately. We routinely bring insulated bottles of cool refreshments to hydrate while working on rooftops, and we constantly hydrate when working in a hot kitchen. We also know to take breaks during strenuous physical labor. However, new employees or those returning from cooler climates may not be acclimated to higher temperatures.

Hazardous heat exposure can occur during any season. Even in cooler months, we can become overheated if we don't gradually shed layers of clothing during strenuous work. While our island doesn't experience winter, the principles for preventing and responding to heat-related injuries remain vital.

Prevention is key to avoiding heat-related injuries. Hydrate the night before and continuously hydrate throughout the day with water or sports drinks. Remember to replace lost salts with snacks. Consistent hydration and taking breaks in a cool area can effectively prevent Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion, or Heat Stroke.

Heat-Related Illnesses and Responses:

·       Heat Cramps: Symptoms include heavy sweating with muscle pain or spasms. If experienced, move to a cool area and rest. Drink water and sports drinks, and if possible, eat snacks to replace lost salts. Report your symptoms to your supervisor.

·       Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, cool, pale, and clammy skin, vomiting, weakness, and dizziness. Immediately move to a cool place. Loosen clothing, cool the body by fanning or applying cool water to the skin, and sip water slowly. Call for medical assistance if symptoms worsen or do not subside.

·       Heat Stroke: This is a life-threatening condition. Symptoms include a high body temperature, fast pulse, headache or dizziness, confusion, and passing out. Immediately call 911. Then, move the person to a cool place and begin cooling their body by fanning, misting, and applying cool wet cloths or giving a cool bath. Do not give the person anything to drink.

For those working in construction, the Heat Index App is a valuable tool. For example, as of this writing, the app shows a temperature of 88°F and 68% humidity, resulting in a heat index of 99°F, which falls within the danger zone. The app's precautions for such conditions include resting every two hours or less, drinking one cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes (not to exceed six cups), setting up shade canopies when possible, and adjusting work activities to perform more strenuous tasks during cooler parts of the day.

In summary, as temperatures transition from the cooler period of December and January to the hotter season of May to August, adjust activities to accommodate the warmer conditions. Heat injuries are preventable.

Reference: Red Cross What Should You Do During Extreme Heat Extreme Heat Safety | Heat Exhaustion Safety | Red Cross