Heat Illness Prevention and Response
If the forecast exceeds 80°F, shade must be provided by natural or artificial means for rest breaks.
When temperatures are expected to exceed 95°F, if possible, limit strenuous tasks to morning or late afternoon hours. Rest breaks in shade must be provided at least 10 minutes every 2 hours (or more if needed). Effective means of communication, observation and monitoring for signs of heat illness are required at all times. A pre-work safety discussion is required.
First Aid Reference – Signs & Symptoms of Heat Illness
Heat Exhaustion
Signs & Symptoms
- Dizziness, headache
- Rapid heart rate
- Pale, cool, clammy or flushed skin
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Fatigue, thirst, muscle cramps
Treatment
- Stop all exertion.
- Move to a cool shaded place.
- Hydrate with cool water.
Response Action
- Heat exhaustion is the most common type of heat illness. Initiate treatment.
- If no improvement, call 911 and seek medical help.
- Do not return to work in the sun. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.
Heat Stroke
Signs & Symptoms
- Disoriented, irritable, combative, unconscious
- Hallucinations, seizures, poor balance
- Rapid heart rate
- Hot, dry and red skin
- Fever, body temperature above 104°F
Treatment
- Move (gently) to a cooler spot in shade.
- Loosen clothing and spray clothes and exposed skin with water and fan.
- Cool by placing ice or cold packs along neck, chest, armpits and groin. Do not place ice directly on skin
Response Action
- Call 911 or seek medical help immediately.
- Heat stroke is a life threatening medical emergency. A victim can die within minutes if not properly treated. Efforts to reduce body temperature must begin immediately!
Resources
- Occupational Heat Exposure (OSHA)
- OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety Tool Smartphone App - iPhone
- OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety Tool Smartphone App - Android