JUNE SAFETY TOPIC: HEAT STRESS PREVENTION

Employees performing work activities outdoors are encouraged to utilize extra precautions while being exposed to high weather temperatures. It is recommended that employees:

• wear light colored clothing

• avoid less direct sunlight

• utilize adequate sunscreen

• take breaks as needed

• eat light meals

• replenish with fluids frequently during the day by drinking liquids

HYDRATE!

The most important proactive step to avoid “Heat Exhaustion” is to drink plenty of liquids regularly throughout a work shift; therefore, employees are encouraged to drink liquids to maintain their body fluids. Employees must ensure they hydrate their body when exposed to high temperature conditions. However, employees drinking electrolyte liquids such as Gatorade should drink with caution. An employee should drink one cup of electrolyte liquid followed by a minimum of two 8oz. cups of water. Employees should not drink electrolyte liquids with their meal due to the possibility of causing stomach problems. Energy drinks and coffee are also not an effective way to keep the body hydrated. These substances are a diuretic and could actually cause you to lose more of your body’s hydration. Workers should also limit the intake of soft drinks.

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

Possible signs and symptoms of Heat Exhaustion may include, but are not limited to:

• nausea

• headaches

• weakness

• dizziness

• stomach cramps

• clammy skin

• dark urine

• extreme sweating

The color of one’s urine can tell a lot about how hydrated that person is. (Please refer to the urine color chart.) Employees are encouraged to be responsible and avoid Heat Exhaustion by taking above mentioned proactive safety actions. It is also important to take a break, drink a cup of water and analyze yourself any time you feel the heat is becoming a factor.

Furthermore, if an employee is experiencing an unhealthy condition during a work shift, the employee should report the condition to the immediate onsite supervisor as soon as possible. It is also imperative to report to a supervisor if any of your co-workers become affected by the heat. To maintain our safety and health, it is very important employees understand the importance of taking a proactive approach to avoid Heat Exhaustion; therefore, Account Managers/Field Supervisors are encouraged to conduct a safety meeting with their immediate crew to increase the awareness of avoiding Heat Exhaustion.

At BOSS, your personal safety is of the utmost importance. The goal of this topic is to recognize the hazards and symptoms of Heat Exhaustion and

stop them before they occur. Remember, there is no better cure than prevention and always utilize Stop Work Authority if necessary!