Let’s Talk
Menu

As the hot summer months of June, July, and August approach, heat awareness becomes critically important. From 1992 to 2022, a total of 986 employees across all industries died from heat exposure. Of those 986 employees, 34% worked in the construction industry, according to the EPA. Furthermore, the first couple of hot weeks of the summer are especially important, as 50% to 70% of heat-related fatalities occur in the first few days of someone working in hot temperatures.  Thus, it is important for those in the construction industry to be aware of the risks from working in the heat.

Heat Exhaustion

Overview: Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses an excessive amount of fluids due to heavily sweating during strenuous activity in hot temperatures. Because of this fluid loss, the body lacks the water and salt it needs to be able to function properly.

Symptoms: Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include (but are not limited to): headache, dizziness, weakness, thirst, elevated body temperature, and heavy sweating.

Treatments: If someone appears to be experiencing heat exhaustion, quickly move them to a cooler area that is out of the sun and encourage them to sip on cool water. In addition, remove any unnecessary clothing and apply damp, cool cloths to their skin. If their condition does not improve, seek medical attention for them.

Heat Stroke

Overview: Heat stroke is a very serious condition where the body can no longer control its own internal temperature. The internal body temperature can rise all the way up to 106 degrees within the first 15 minutes of heat stroke occurring. Heat stroke is life-threatening.

Symptoms: Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include (but are not limited to): confusion/slurred speech, seizures, loss of consciousness, hot/dry skin or profuse sweating.

Treatments: If someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately. After calling 911, stay with the person until medical personnel arrive. In addition, try to cool the person by immersing their body in cold water (if possible) or by placing cold, wet clothes on their head, neck, and armpits.

The best way to treat heat illness is to prevent it in the first place. Methods such as pre-hydrating/rehydrating, taking extra breaks, and watching out for your co-workers are all great ways to ensure that everyone goes home safely at the end of the day.


Back to Overview


BLOG CATEGORIES

View all