Heat, work combo can be hazardous

Even though there has been a recent surge of rainy days, most days this summer have been usual for this time of year — hot and humid.

For all those who work outside, like carpenters, construction workers, landscapers, road workers and even mail carriers, the heat and humidity can be a potent mix, even for native south Louisianians.

In order to avoid heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke, everyone should remember to take the necessary precautions.

Louisiana Workers’ Compensation Corp.’s Mike Page, director of safety and loss prevention, said “Making a few simple workplace adjustments, as well as providing proper training can go a long way in preventing heat-related injuries, saving lost workdays and possible saving lives.

LWCC said there are some things employers should do: Schedule maintenance and repair jobs in hot areas for cooler months; schedule hot jobs for the cooler part of the day; acclimatize workers by exposing them for progressively longer periods to hot work environments; reduce the physical demands of workers; use relief workers or assign extra workers for physically demanding jobs; provide cool water or liquids to drink; avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar; provide rest periods with water breaks; provide cool areas for use in rest periods; monitor workers who are at risk of heat stress; and provide heat stress training that includes information about risk, prevention, symptoms, treatment, personal protective equipment and monitoring yourself and co-workers for symptoms.

In addition, workers themselves can take the following precautions: wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as cotton; avoid non-breathing synthetic clothing; gradually build up to heavy work; schedule heavy work during the coolest parts of the day; take more breaks in extreme heat and humidity; take breaks in the shade or a cool area whenever possible; drink water frequently—drink enough water that you never become thirsty; avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol and large amounts of sugar; be aware that protective clothing or personal protective equipment may increase the risk of heat stress; and monitor your physical condition and that of your co-workers.

Symptoms of heatstroke include the following:

• Hot, dry skin with no sweating;

• Confusion, dizziness or hallucinations;

• High body temperature;

• Slurred speech; and

• Throbbing headache.

First aid for heatstroke includes calling 911 and notifying a supervisor; move the person to a cool, shaded area; and cool off the person by soaking his clothes with water; spraying, sponging or showering him with water; or fanning his body.

Heat exhaustion symptoms include:

• Heavy sweating;

• Extreme weakness or fatigue;

• Dizziness, confusion;

• Nausea;

• Clammy moist skin;

• Pale or flushed complexion;

• Muscle cramps;

• Slightly elevated body temperature; and

• Fast and shallow breathing.

First aid for heat exhaustion includes moving the person to a cool, shaded area; have them drink plenty of water or other cool, nonalcoholic beverages; and have worker take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath.

Of course, this applies not only to those working outside, but anyone doing any physical activity in the heat. Remember — take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.