You might be surprised at the number of people who visit the ER each year in the U.S. due to heat-related illness. The CDC reports over 65,000 emergency room visits annually. However, heat-related illnesses can be preventable.
While there are many factors that contribute to heat-related illness, there are some well-known steps that we can take to keep our bodies cool. Plus, there are signs to look for if you or your teammate starts to overheat.
This week, the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) is hosting Safety Stand Down Week in conjunction with OSHA’s Safe + Sound Week, and we’re focusing on heat safety. Our goal is simple: proactively identify and manage workplace hazards before they cause injury or illness.
Preventing Heat-Related Illness
Earlier this week, we talked about the big three in heat safety: Water, rest, and shade. Additional steps we can take include:
- Start the workday earlier to avoid working in the hottest parts of the day.
- Wear light-colored clothing to help reflect the sun.
- Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, or high sugar content, as they can contribute to dehydration.
- Work shorter shifts, and if needed, limit outdoor work if it’s unsafe.
Sometimes, even with the best of intentions, we can experience heat exhaustion or worse, heat stroke. That is is why it’s important to know what different heat-related illnesses can look like.
Recognizing the Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Heat exhaustion (COOL DOWN IMMEDIATELY)
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Thirst
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Heavy sweating
- Elevated body temperature or fast heart rate
Heat stroke (SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION)
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Unconsciousness
- Seizures
- Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin
- Very high body temperature
- Rapid heart rate
BONUS: Print out this page and hang it in your bathrooms.
If someone is experiencing heat-related illness, it’s important that you act fast. Managers now is a great time to review your operation’s Heat Response Plan. Is your current team up to date on their training?
Don’t worry, you don’t have to go through this alone. If you have questions about your Heat Response Plan, reach out to our Director of Safety Outreach, Dr. Ryan Nolte, at rnolte@recycledmaterials.org.
