Oh that California sun. Whether you’re driving your car down the highway, enjoying the waves at the beach, or having a BBQ in the backyard, there’s nothing quite the same.
But it isn’t just fun and games that happen in the beautiful California sun—many people work in hot situations as well. With summer around the corner, it is time to think about ways to prevent heat illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Shade and Rest
For those who work outdoors, taking breaks in the shade is vital to preventing heat related illnesses. As employers, provide shaded areas for people to escape the sun and allow them to cool down for at least five minutes at a time.
Water
Drink at least one 8-ounce cup of water every 15 minutes when working outside in the heat. And don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink water.
Heat Illness Indoors
Heat illnesses don’t just occur outside in the sun. Indoor work environments, such as factories and warehouses, can be very hot and humid. Take the same precautions in these environments as you would when working outside—drink water, rest in cooler places, and know the signs of heat illness.
Warning Signs of Heat Illnesses
The CDC lists the following as warning signs of Heat Stroke:
Extremely high body temperature (above 130⁰)
Red, hot, dry skin
High pulse
Throbbing headache
Dizziness
Nausea/vomiting
Confusion
Unconsciousness
Warning Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
Heavy Sweating
Paleness
Muscle Cramps
Tiredness
Weakness
Dizziness
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Fainting
Remember!
Four steps from the California Department of Industrial Relations (Cal/OSHA) for California employers take to prevent heat illness:
1. Train all employees about heat illness prevention
2. Provide water so employees can drink at least 1 quart per hour
3. Provide shade and encourage employees to take a cool down rest for at least five minutes
4. Plan written procedures for complying with Cal/OSHA Heat Illness Prevention Standards
Find more information about heat illness prevention on the Loss Prevention page of the EIA website.
