Heat Illness Prevention

Working outdoors in the heat can be dangerous, especially when combined with physical labor. Without proper precautions, your body can quickly overheat, leading to heat illness. A recent safety flyer outlines essential tips to help workers stay safe under the sun.

Preventive Measures:
To reduce the risk of heat illness, wear loose, light-colored clothing and take frequent breaks in the shade. Build up to intense work gradually and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day. Staying hydrated is crucial—drink water or sports drinks regularly, even if you’re not thirsty.

Recognizing Symptoms:
Heat illness can take three forms:

• Heat cramps cause painful muscle spasms.
• Heat exhaustion leads to heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and a rapid pulse.
• Heat stroke, the most severe, involves high body temperature, dry skin, confusion, or unconsciousness.

Immediate Response:
Prompt treatment is key. Move affected individuals to a cooler area, hydrate them (except in cases of heat stroke), and call emergency services if symptoms are severe.

Final Reminder:
Factors like age, fitness, and medication use can increase vulnerability to heat. Always check the weather, plan ahead, and speak with a supervisor or doctor about any personal risk factors.

Stay cool, stay safe, and keep an eye on each other during hot weather workdays.

For more details, refer to the following safety resources provided by the Kentucky AGC Self Insurers’ Fund.