Summer is coming. With many WSDA employees working outside and interacting with employers who oversee outdoor workers, remember to be alert to the hazards of high summer temperatures.
Exposure to heat can cause illness and death. The most serious condition is heat stroke, but other illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash, should also be avoided.
Employers can and should take precautions any time temperatures are high and workers are doing a job that involves physical work. Know the symptoms to watch for and how to protect yourself and others from heat; see lists below.
For more information, see the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration heat illness prevention page.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion:
- Headache, dizziness, or fainting.
- Weakness and wet skin.
- Irritability or confusion.
- Thirst, nausea, or vomiting.
- May be confused, unable to think clearly, pass out, collapse, or have seizures.
- May stop sweating.
- Know the signs and symptoms of heat illnesses.
- Monitor yourself; use a buddy system.
- Block out direct sun and other heat sources.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Drink often and before you feel thirsty. Drink water every 15 minutes.
- Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose fitting clothes.
