The mix of heat, sun exposure, and greater physical demands during the summer months presents unique problems when working outdoors. Safety must come first in order to avoid heat-related illnesses and maintain a productive work environment, regardless of whether you work in construction, landscaping, agriculture, or any other outdoor industry. These are some important safety reminders to remember:
Know the risk
Everybody’s health can be negatively impacted by heat, but those who work outside, elderly individuals, small children, and those with medical issues are most vulnerable.
Heat-related ailments, including heat exhaustion or heatstroke, can develop rapidly and have long-term consequences for one’s health. Heatstroke is one of the heat-related disorders that can possibly be fatal. When it’s hot outside, there are a few easy things you can take to protect yourself and your coworkers.
Watch for symptoms
Extreme thirst, a fast heartbeat, and dizziness are signs of heat illness. Keep an eye out for these symptoms in both yourself and your coworkers. If symptoms appear, seek out a cool location and drink plenty of water.
Heatstroke may occur if signs are disregarded or missed. A high body temperature, disorientation and loss of coordination, lightheadedness or fainting, and a lack of perspiration in the heat are all signs of heatstroke. These signs may indicate a medical emergency, in which case you should dial 911 right away. If you can, transfer the individual to a cool location, fan them as much as you can, and wash big sections of their skin or clothing with cold water while you wait for aid.
Pace yourself
In a heat wave, don’t think you can work at your usual pace. Reduce your speed and stop more often to sip water in the shade. While it might seem like time wasted at work, maintaining your health will allow you to accomplish more in the long run.
Drink up
During a heat wave, make sure you drink lots of liquids, especially water. To reduce the chance of being dehydrated, take this action before you feel thirsty. Dehydration cannot always be detected by thirst.
Dress for the weather
If you can, dress in airy, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brimmed hat. Your breaks are especially more crucial if you wear bulky safety gear at work. When taking breaks in a secure area, always sure to take off your equipment.
By putting these safety recommendations into practice, outdoor workers can reduce the dangers that come with working during the scorching days of summer, making the workplace a safer and healthier place for everyone.
Read more at: https://newscanada.com/en/working-outdoors-3f-here-are-some-key-safety-tips-139037
Reference: https://newscanada.com/
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