Watch Out For These 5 Heat-Related Illnesses for Workers

Introduction to Heat-Related Illness

As we enter the summer months, the temperatures are rising, and many workers across various industries face the risk of heat-related illnesses on the job. From construction sites to warehouses, factories, and outdoor workplaces, the hazards of heat-related illness can have serious consequences on employee health and safety.

Heat stress occurs when heat is combined with other stressors such as hard physical work, loss of fluids, fatigue, or some pre-existing medical conditions. Heat stress may lead to heat-related illness, disability, and even death. Employers, employees, and the public alike need to know how to recognize the signs of heat stress to prevent it from occurring and be able to assist those who fall victim to it. In this blog, we examine five different types of heat-related illnesses that you need to watch out for this summer.

1. Heat Rash

Heat rash is common in warm and moist conditions. This heat-related illness happens when the sweat glands become blocked, obstructing the normal sweating process and causing swelling and irritation of the skin. Heat stress typically appears on the neck, chest, back, groin, or armpits of an affected person. Symptoms to watch out for on the skin include redness and inflammation, the appearance of small bumps, and itching or burning sensations. Avoid the use of powders, creams, and ointments. Baby powders do not improve or prevent heat rash. Creams and ointments tend to keep the skin warmer and block the pores.

To prevent heat rash, workers should dress in loose clothing, hydrate often, take appropriate breaks, and apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen. If prevention fails and workers start to experience signs of heat rash, immediately remove them to a cool location, remove their excess clothing (i.e. vests and PPE), and apply a cool compress to affected areas. While heat rash often goes away within a few days, if the condition persists, it is important to contact a healthcare provider.

2. Heat Syncope

Heat syncope occurs when individuals are dehydrated. This type of illness causes fainting or dizziness, especially when standing for too long or suddenly standing up after sitting or lying down. Symptoms of heat syncope include sudden paleness, dizziness, sudden sweating, muscle cramps, and confusion. First aid for those experiencing symptoms of heat syncope includes moving to a cool place to rest and putting your legs up. Rehydrating with water is also key to treating this illness.

3. Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are muscle cramps that come from prolonged exposure to excess heat. These occur when the body loses so much fluid in the form of sweat that it cannot replace the salt that is lost. Symptoms of heat cramps include muscle cramping and spasms, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and general weakness.

General guidelines for preventing heat cramps include hydrating often to replace the fluid lost in the form of sweat and frequent breaks to avoid overexertion. If workers experience these symptoms, they must move to a cool place to cool down and be provided with fluids. If the cramps last for longer than an hour, if the worker has known heart problems or is on a low-sodium diet, we recommend seeking medical help.

4. Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is the result of continuous exertion in heat, accompanied by dehydration from deficient water and salt intake. The worker may be suffering from shock because they have lost so much fluid through sweating. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body can no longer keep blood flowing to supply vital organs and at the same time, send blood to the skin to decrease body temperature. Signs of heat exhaustion include weakness, difficulty working, headache, breathlessness, nausea or vomiting, feeling faint or dizzy or fainting. Heat exhaustion is a serious heat-related illness, and prompt treatment is required.

Prevention of heat exhaustion includes proper hydration, frequent breaks, and monitoring body temperature regularly. Should a worker display signs of heat exhaustion, it is important that it is treated immediately as death can occur if left untreated. Due to the severity of the illness, we recommend seeking medical assistance as soon as symptoms present themselves.

5. Heat Stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the body’s internal temperature control system fails and the body stops sweating. When the body can no longer cool itself, core temperature rises to critical levels. If this condition is not treated immediately, serious health effects – and even death – may occur. Signs of heat stroke include confusion, irrational behaviour, loss of consciousness, convulsions, lack of sweating, hot, dry skin and abnormally high body temperatures.

Prevention of heat exhaustion includes taking frequent breaks in shaded and cool areas, dressing in loose-fitting clothing, and acclimating oneself to the temperature to allow the body to adapt. If signs of heat stress present themselves, do not delay in seeking medical attention and calling 911 immediately. While waiting for medical attention, move the victim to a cool, shaded area and remove any excess clothing. Using misters and fans to keep a worker cool is also recommended.

Heat-related illnesses such as heat rash, heat syncope, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are serious conditions that can occur when the body is unable to cool itself effectively in hot weather. It is crucial to take preventive measures so workers can avoid these conditions. Measures include staying hydrated, seeking shade or air-conditioning when needed, and dressing appropriately. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention immediately.