Can You Take the Heat? 5 Tips to Reduce Heat Exposure

Millions of U.S. workers are exposed to heat elements in their workplace each year. Hazardous heat exposure can occur both indoors, outdoors, and across multiple industries.  

In 2022, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 51 deaths caused by extreme temperatures, with 43 of those due to extreme heat. These numbers may be inaccurate because doctors and patients might not always realize an illness is heat-related, and workers might not connect their sickness to the heat. Employers might also avoid reporting these injuries to avoid higher workers' compensation costs. Because of this, some researchers estimate the real number of worker deaths from heat each year is in the thousands. 

Workers are often required to work in the heat for long periods of time. Many that are just starting out are not used to the amount of heat they are exposed to and are the most susceptible to heat illness. There are two types of heat-related illnesses that may occur if the body is unable to regulate its temperature:  

• Exertional heat illness: A result of metabolic heat generated by muscle activity in the body.  

• Environmental heat illness: Attributed to ambient conditions, including heat and relative humidity. 

What Are the Signs of Heat Illness?   

If workers are not able to dissipate heat quickly, their internal body temperature will continue to rise, and they may experience symptoms that include, but are not limited to: 

• Rashes - Red cluster of pimples or small blisters commonly found on the neck and upper chest.  

• Cramps - Pains felt in the muscles, often with spasms, and usually in conjunction with strenuous activity  

• Heat exhaustion - Headaches, dizziness, body temperature greater than 100°F  

• Heat stroke - Confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures   

What to Do When Workers Experience Symptoms?  

Never leave a worker with heat illness alone. The illness can take a rapid turn for the worse. When any signs are present, follow these steps:  

• Remove the worker from the hot area and provide water  

• Use cold compresses to cool the worker 

• Provide the worker with a cooler environment and powder for areas where a rash is present   

• Call 911 if the worker has lost consciousness or may be experiencing a seizure 

By taking these steps, facilities can help prevent the heat illness from becoming more serious and ensure the worker receives the necessary care. Quick and appropriate actions can make a significant difference in the worker's recovery, reducing the risk of long-term health effects or even death. Ensuring that all employees are aware of these procedures can create a safer work environment and promote prompt responses to heat-related emergencies. This not only protects the health and well-being of workers but also demonstrates a commitment to safety and responsibility in the workplace.  

Heat Illness Prevention 

Heat illness is preventable. It's important to gradually build a tolerance to the heat over time through a process called heat acclimatization. According to the Center of Disease Control (CDC), the gradual intensity of the heat exposure could take 1-2 weeks for workers to acclimate. 

New workers will need more time to acclimatize than workers who have already had some exposure. The CDC also recommends following an acclimatization schedule for new and seasoned workers. For new workers, their heat exposure schedule should start with a maximum of 20% on the first day, increasing by no more than 20% each additional day. For workers that already have experience in the job, the acclimatization schedule should be 50% exposure on the first day, 60% on the second day, 80% on the third day, and 100% by the fourth day.  

Whether a facility employs new or experienced workers, it’s important to follow these five tips to prevent worker heat exposure:

1. Drink water - Drink water every 15 minutes in hot conditions.  
2. Dress for the heat - Wearing light, loose-fitted, and light-colored clothing will keep you cooler and help prevent heat exhaustion.   
3. Take breaks - Take frequent breaks in a cool, shaded place.   
4. Modified work schedule - Schedule shifts earlier in the day to reduce the amount of heat exposure, such as more physically demanding projects. 
5. Emergency planning - Create a plan for emergencies. Train workers on how to be helpful in an emergency.   

Under OSHA's General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1), employers are required to provide a safe workspace that "is free from recognized hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious harm to employees." The employer should be up to date on industry hazards and create a safety plan. Not every state requires a heat illness plan. It's a good idea to have one in place anyway. Below are some important elements to consider when creating a plan:  

• Acclimatization methods and procedures  

• Procedures for providing sufficient water  

• Procedures for providing access to shade  

• High-heat procedures  

• Emergency response procedures  

Having a detailed heat illness prevention plan not only helps comply with OSHA's General Duty Clause but also enhances the overall safety and well-being of employees. Even if not mandated by state law, implementing such a plan is a proactive measure that can prevent heat-related illnesses and injuries in any industry. By including elements like acclimatization methods, procedures for providing water and shade, high-heat protocols, and emergency response steps, employers can create a safer work environment and protect their workers from the dangers of extreme heat. 

DuraLabel Heat Safety Solutions 

As we approach warmer temperatures it’s important for workers to not only limit their exposure to the heat but also understand and recognize the signs of someone who may be experiencing symptoms of heat illness. 

To help with this, DuraLabel offers a range of resources and products designed to enhance workplace safety. DuraLabel’s free OSHA Signage Instant Action Guide helps you create OSHA/ANSI-compliant safety signs and custom labels effortlessly. This guide includes a site inspection checklist to help you assess your facility and ensure compliance with safety standards. 

DuraLabel’s industrial label printers, such as the DuraLabel Toro Max and DuraLabel Kodiak Max, are perfect for creating durable, high-quality labels and signs that can withstand harsh conditions and provide clear instructions for workers. These tools can help ensure that all safety measures are communicated effectively, reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses and injuries. 

Get help crafting a system that will provide the safety communication you need. Call 1-888-402-8820 and one of our experts will guide you through the process. 

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