Working outside in extremely hot weather can be challenging and uncomfortable. However, for many workers such as construction workers, landscapers, and others, working outdoors is part of the job description even during the hottest summer months. Thankfully, there are ways to safely work outside even when temperatures reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
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How does working in high heat affect the body?
When you work in high heat, your body has to work extra hard to maintain a normal body temperature. As the outdoor temperature rises, your body responds by circulating blood to the skin and increasing sweat production to cool itself down. This places strain on your cardiovascular system.
If your body can’t shed enough heat through these mechanisms, your core body temperature will start to rise. If it gets high enough (generally above 104°F), you may experience heat-related illness such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Some of the symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
– Heavy sweating
– Weakness and fatigue
– Cool, clammy skin
– Nausea and vomiting
– Headache
– Dizziness or fainting
Heat stroke is even more dangerous, with symptoms like:
– Body temperature above 103°F
– Hot, red, dry skin with no sweating
– Rapid pulse
– Difficulty breathing
– Strange behavior or confusion
– Seizures or loss of consciousness
If left untreated, heat stroke can damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. It can even be fatal.
Tips for working safely in extreme heat
Here are some tips to help you work safely outdoors when the mercury rises:
1. Hydrate
Drink plenty of water, even if you aren’t feeling thirsty. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks which can promote dehydration. Aim for 8 ounces of water every 15-20 minutes. Sports drinks can help replenish lost electrolytes too.
2. Take frequent breaks
Take regular breaks in cool, shaded areas to give your body a chance to recover. Try setting a timer or alarm to remind you to take 5-10 minute breaks every hour. New workers or those not used to heat should start with more frequent breaks.
3. Wear proper clothing
Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to allow airflow. Moisture-wicking fabrics can help keep you dry. A wide-brimmed hat provides shade and a bandana with cool water can lower your temperature when worn around the neck.
4. Use cooling accessories
Cooling accessories like ice packs, cooling towels or vests can help you maintain safe body temperatures in extreme heat. Cooling gloves or hard hat liners are options for keeping your hands and head cooler as well.
5. Avoid direct sunlight when possible
Take advantage of any shade available to avoid direct sun exposure. Use a portable canopy or umbrella when working in open areas without shelter. Schedule the most strenuous tasks for earlier or later in the day when temperatures are lower.
6. Apply sunscreen
Use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Reapply at least every 2 hours if working outdoors all day. Sunburn decreases your body’s ability to cool itself.
7. Eat lighter, cooler foods
Eat smaller, lighter meals and snacks. Avoid heavy hot foods and big meals which can increase your metabolic heat production. Hydrating fruits and salads are good options.
8. Check on each other
Watch your coworkers for signs of heat stress and take action quickly if needed. Remind each other to hydrate, rest and cool down. Those newer to working in heat are at higher risk.
9. Allow time to acclimatize
If you’re a new worker, gradually increase your outdoor time in the heat over the first week to allow your body to adjust. Start with less demanding tasks in the coolest parts of the day.
10. Know the signs of heat illness
Recognize the symptoms of heat cramps, exhaustion and stroke. Stop all activity and get medical help right away if you or a coworker shows any signs of serious heat illness.
Additional tips for employers
Employers who have workers spending significant time outdoors in hot conditions should take additional steps to protect them:
– Provide training on heat illness risks, prevention, symptoms and response
– Ensure adequate water and shade are available on site
– Schedule frequent breaks and rotate staff for high heat tasks
– Modify work hours to avoid the hottest part of the day
– Provide cooling items like hats, cooling towels, or misting stations
– Develop an emergency action plan for heat illness cases
Heat Index Chart
This chart shows the health risk associated with different heat index temperatures, which factor in humidity levels:
| Heat Index Temperature | Health Risk with Prolonged Exposure |
|---|---|
| 80° – 90°F | Caution: fatigue possible |
| 90° – 105°F | Extreme caution: heat cramps and exhaustion possible |
| 105° – 130°F | Danger: heat cramps and exhaustion likely, stroke possible |
| Over 130°F | Extreme danger: heat stroke highly likely |
Preventing heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke occupy different points on the spectrum of heat-related illness. Heat exhaustion is less severe, while heat stroke is a true medical emergency.
However, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke if left untreated. So it’s important to recognize and act on the signs of heat exhaustion early.
Here’s a comparison of preventative measures and symptoms for these two conditions:
| Heat Exhaustion | Heat Stroke |
|---|---|
Prevention Tips:
|
Prevention Tips:
|
Symptoms:
|
Symptoms:
|
As you can see, the symptoms profile differs significantly between heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Recognizing these signs and responding appropriately can make all the difference.
What to do if a worker shows signs of heat illness
If you notice a coworker exhibiting any of the symptoms in the charts above:
1. Call for medical help immediately if you suspect heat stroke. This is a medical emergency.
2. Move the person to a shaded, cool area.
3. Help lower their body temperature by removing excess layers of clothing, fanning them, and applying ice/cool water to the neck, armpits and groin area. Mist them with cool water.
4. If alert, have them drink cool water.
5. Stay with the person until emergency medical care arrives.
6. If signs are mild, like those of heat exhaustion, have them rest and cool off for at least an hour before trying to return to activity. Keep a close eye on them.
Responding quickly can help prevent heat exhaustion from evolving into deadly heat stroke. Always exercise caution when working in hot conditions.
Conclusion
Working outdoors in extremely hot, humid weather puts workers at risk of heat stress. Employers and workers should take proper precautions and follow safety measures like hydration, rest breaks, appropriate clothing and more. Recognizing the signs of heat illness and responding immediately may save a life. With smart preparation and vigilance, it’s possible to work safely outdoors even during heat waves.