How to: Protect Employees from Heat, Sun

Know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and heat stress such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and most dangerous, heat stroke. Symptoms indicative of heat exhaustion, which is caused by the loss of large amounts of fluid and/or salt sweating, include clammy and moist skin, extreme weakness or fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache or fainting.

Warning signs of heat stroke vary, but may include an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F orally), red and dry skin (no sweating), rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion or unconsciousness.

The best defense against heat-related illnesses is prevention. Protect your employees with these heat-related safety tips.

• Ensure all of your employees have been trained in heat-related illnesses and document that training.
• Monitor weather forecasts to determine when a "Heat Advisory" or "Heat Alert" is in effect.
• Drink 16-32 ounces of cool fluids each hour when working outdoors.
• Replace salt and minerals with electrolyte drinks.
• Do not rush; a slower but steady pace reduces stress on the body.
• Avoid working in direct sunlight whenever possible, and take frequent breaks.
• Protect the face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
• Wear UV-absorbent sunglasses to protect the eyes.
• Perform most strenuous outdoor tasks during the morning, if possible.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Use a buddy system and check on employees often; monitoring for heat-related symptoms increases the chances of avoiding illness.
• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals, since they add heat to the body; avoid caffeine and alcohol, due to their dehydrating properties.
• Ensure provisions are in place for prompt medical attention.