The Chicagoland area is expecting several 90 degree days this week.
5 tips to avoid heat stress:
- Stay hydrated. Drink one cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes.
- Take regular breaks in a shaded or cool area.
- Wear the right clothes. Light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable attire is best.
- Schedule heavy work during the coolest parts of the day.
- Set up a buddy system to keep an eye out for colleagues. Supervisors should monitor workers for signs of heat-related illness.
What to do if a person shows signs of heat stress:
- Stop work immediately and call 9-1-1 from land lines or (630) 252-1911 from mobile devices.
- Move the worker to a cool/shaded area.
- Advise the worker to drink water, remove excess clothing and apply cool water to body.
Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
Heat exhaustion
- Muscle cramps
- Extreme weakness or fatigue
- Fast or shallow breathing
- Pale or flushed complexion
- Upset stomach or vomiting
- Headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, irritability, or confusion
Heat stroke
- Dry, hot skin or profuse sweating
- Chills and throbbing headache
- High body temperature
- Mental confusion or loss of consciousness
- Seizures and convulsions
Please print and share this safety share from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration on the health effects of heat with your colleagues and/or staff.
All employees are encouraged to submit safety shares for inclusion in the Safety Share Library. Submission details are available on Inside Argonne.
Each month a safety share submitted by an individual will be selected to receive a Spot Award for demonstrated safety leadership. The Spot Award program offers three award levels: gold ($100), silver ($50) and bronze ($25).