Click to start Three Faces of Heat Stress

Click to start

Three Faces of Heat Stress SEASONAL SAFETY T 1907 -04 © 2009 Bongarde

WHAT’S AT STAKE • From the sun • Work environment • Life-threatening emergency

WHAT’S THE DANGER • • Heat cramps Heat exhaustion Heat stroke Working in hot and humid conditions

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF • HEAT CRAMPS: • Painful but not life- threatening • Leg and stomach muscles • Imbalance of water and salt • Water, rest and a lightly salted snack

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF • HEAT EXHAUSTION: • More serious • Too little water • Loss of salt • Dizziness, sweating, headache, weakness, tiredness and nausea • Reduced mental alertness, blurred vision, pale and wet skin • Shallow rapid breathing

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF • Suffering from heat exhaustion: • Move to a cooler place • Loosen restrictive clothing • Drink a salt solution • Lay the victim down • Raise feet and legs • Fan the victim • Sponge with lukewarm water • Call for medical help

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF • HEAT STROKE: • Serious • Life-threatening medical emergency • Body has lost its ability to sweat • Skin will be hot and dry • Breathing will be deep and fast • Muscles feel as if they are on fire • May collapse

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF • Suffering from heat stroke: • Call for medical assistance immediately • Properly trained – rescue breathing procedures • Lower inner body temperature • Remove person’s clothing • Cover with wet blanket • Spray gently with water • Fan the person

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF • Prevent heat stress: • Drink plenty of water • Take rest breaks • Eat light, cool meals • Dress lightly, in layers • Get used to working in the heat

Final Word Heat illness can be serious – even fatal. Take it easy when you work in hot conditions!