What Is Heat Stress?

Construction workers labouring in scorching environments or exposed to excessive heat face potential heat stress hazards. Heat stress is influenced by various factors, including hot and humid environmental conditions, strenuous physical activity, fluid loss and fatigue.

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, heat stress can result in heat rashes, heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Furthermore, heightened temperatures can elevate the risk of workplace incidents, leading to issues like sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses and dizziness among workers. Additionally, there’s an increased likelihood of burns resulting from contact with hot surfaces or steam in these conditions.

Recognizing Heat Stress Symptoms

Employees need to be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses:

• Heat Rash: A red cluster of pimples or small blisters, often appearing on the neck, chest, groin or in elbow creases.

• Heat Cramps: Muscle pains or spasms in the legs, arms or abdomen.

• Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and a rapid, weak pulse.

• Heat Stroke: This is a medical emergency and can be fatal. Symptoms include mental confusion or loss of consciousness, a high body temperature (often above 103°F/39.4°C) and hot, dry skin. If an individual stops sweating, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Heat Stress Prevention

To mitigate the risk of heat stress, several preventive measures should be taken into account:

• Staying adequately hydrated by drinking approximately one cup of water every 20 minutes, regardless of whether you feel thirsty.

• During the initial five to seven days of intense heat, consider lighter workloads and longer breaks. This gradual adjustment helps the body acclimatize to the elevated temperatures.

• Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting and light-coloured clothing. If your attire becomes fully saturated, change it promptly.

• Promote good air circulation within your workspace using fans, open windows or doors, or air conditioning if available. Adequate airflow aids in skin evaporation and cooling. Poor air quality can trigger heat-related illnesses.

• An individual’s physical condition significantly influences susceptibility to heat stress. Conditions such as obesity, lack of conditioning, pregnancy and inadequate rest can elevate risk factors.

• Alternating between work and rest periods is advisable. Shorter, more frequent work-rest cycles are preferable and heavy workloads should be scheduled during cooler parts of the day.

• Certain medical conditions, such as heart conditions, low-sodium diets and specific medications, can increase the risk of heat stress. Employees with such conditions are urged to seek medical advice.

• Keep an eye on temperature, humidity and how your coworkers are responding to the heat. Monitoring should occur hourly to ensure everyone’s well-being.

We prioritize the safety and well-being of our employees in all conditions, including extreme heat. Understanding and implementing these preventative measures is essential to safeguarding our team members from the adverse effects of heat stress. By following these guidelines, we collectively create a safer and more comfortable work environment, ensuring everyone can perform at their best while staying healthy and cool.

If you have any questions, concerns or require further information on how we address heat stress in the workplace, please do not hesitate to contac us. Your feedback and inquiries are invaluable in helping us maintain the highest standards of safety and well-being.  

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FWS is an industrial construction firm with a 70-year track record. We offer comprehensive in-house capabilities spanning project planning, design, engineering, procurement, project management, construction, commissioning and maintenance.