Heat Stress Heat Stress Company Harlan McPhee North McPhee South Powerhawke Ravex Richards Company Using the Form Job Name * Job Name and/or Number Date * Heat Stress Millions of U.S. workers are exposed to heat in their workplaces and the construction and utility trades are among the industries most affected by heat-related illness. Although illness from exposure to heat is preventable, every year, thousands become sick from occupational heat exposure, and dozens of cases are fatal. Most outdoor fatalities, 50% to 70%, occur in the first few days of working in warm or hot environments because the body needs to build a tolerance to the heat gradually over time. The process of building tolerance is called heat acclimatization. Lack of acclimatization represents a major risk factor for fatal outcomes, particularly those who are new workers, temporary workers, or those returning to work after a week or more off. The body normally cools itself by sweating. During hot weather, especially with high humidity, sweating may not be enough. Body temperature can rise to dangerous levels if you don't drink enough water and rest in the shade. You can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke (see graphic below for symptoms). Make sure to address these at your daily pre-job briefs along with the importance of hydration and cooling off during hot weather. Occupational risk factors for heat illness include heavy physical activity, warm or hot environmental conditions, lack of acclimatization, and wearing clothing that holds in body heat. Hazardous heat exposure can occur indoors or outdoors and can occur during any season if the conditions are right, not only during heat waves. To prevent heat-related illness or fatality train your crew to: • Drink water every 15 minutes, even if you are not thirsty. • Take breaks in the shade to cool down. • Wear light-colored clothing, where possible. • Learn the signs of heat illness, and ensure employees know the site emergency procedures and that the procedures are functional. This may include where to transport the employee to and where emergency service will be met. • Modify work hours, when possible, consider the heat factors in the work being performed. o Start work earlier in the morning, if possible. • Keep an eye on fellow workers. o Supervisors continually check and assess your crew • Be mindful of how you feel on your first days of work in the heat. Your body needs to adjust to the warmer temperatures. • Working in full sunlight can increase heat index values by 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep this in mind and plan additional precautions for working in these conditions. • Refer to the Phalcon Safety Manual, Chapter 42 and the project Site-Specific Health and Safety Plan for additional precautions and guidance. What to do if a worker becomes ill? • Immediately notify a supervisor and notify emergency services (911), if necessary. Call the Safety Department for assistance • If they are alert – give them water or sports drinks o Do not give caffeinated drinks or energy drinks • Have them rest in a cool place • Try to cool them with water, ice, fanning, or air conditioning • Have someone stay with the worker until help arrives. Aside from the direct effect of heat and the associated illnesses, working in hot and humid conditions can lead to other risks such as reduced situational awareness, reduced focus and increased fatigue. These conditions can be a source of other non-heat related injuries. Additional Comments Trainer Name * Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Toolbox Talk Attendee Attended By (Required) Picture Upload Drop a file here or click to upload Choose File Maximum upload size: 52.43MB reCAPTCHA If you are human, leave this field blank. Submit Δ
