heat-related issues will become unavoidable. Everyone must be able
to recognize heat-related issues and take immediate action, since
personnel affected by heat can quickly spiral downward to the point
of becoming critical.
Four forms of heat-related issues that are the most common
among personnel working outdoors in hot weather are: heat
rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The following
information appears on OSHA’s website in regards to heat-related
hazards:
Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, is skin irritation caused
by sweat that does not evaporate from the skin. Heat rash is the
most common problem in hot work environments. The physical
appearance of heat rash are clusters of red bumps on the skin, often
appearing on the neck, upper chest and folds of skin. The first
aid for heat rash is to move to a cooler, less humid place, keep the
affected area dry, hydrate and rest.
Heat cramps are caused by the loss of body salts and fluids
during sweating. Low salt levels in the muscles cause painful
cramps. Tired muscles – those used for performing work – are
usually the ones most affected by cramps. Keep in mind that heat
cramps may occur during or after work periods. The physical
appearance of heat cramps are muscle spasms, muscle pain that
occurs typically in the abdomen, arms or legs. The first aid for heat
cramps is rest in a shady area, hydrate, give cramps time to go away
and seek medical attention if cramps do not go away.
Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to loss of water and
salt from heavy sweating. Individuals suffering from heat exhaustion
will demonstrate the following symptoms: cool, moist skin,
heavy sweating, headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, light-
headedness, weakness, thirst, irritability and a fast heart rate.
First aid for heat exhaustion is to have the worker sit or lie down
in a shaded area, provide plenty of water or cool liquid, cool the
worker with a cold compress or ice packs and seek medical attention
for evaluation if symptoms do not improve within 60 minutes.
Personnel affected by heat exhaustion should not return to work for
the remainder of the day.
Heat stroke is by far the most serious heat-related issue. Heat
stroke occurs when the body becomes unable to regulate its core
temperature. Sweating stops and the body can no longer rid itself of
excessive heat. Signs of heat stroke include confusion, fainting, seizures,
excessive sweating or red, dry, hot skin and a very high body
temperature. Since heat stroke can be fatal, the first thing to do is
call 911. While waiting for an EMT, seek a shady, cool area for the
employee, loosen and remove outer clothing, fan air on the worker
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
Everyone must be able to recognize heat-related issues and
take immediate action, since personnel affected by heat can
quickly spiral downward to the point of becoming critical.
216-641-2218 or 844-319-5055 | www.cappco.com
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12 | ISSUE 3 2018
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