Stinging insects, especially bees and wasps, can pose a health risk to anyone, even those without a known allergy to bee stings.
In keeping with our core value of Safety, any site occupant who experiences an insect sting or bite should call 9-1-1 (from a landline) or 630-252-1911 (from a cell phone) to report the incident.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), outdoor workers are at risk of being stung by flying insects (bees, wasps, and hornets). While most stings cause only mild discomfort, some may result in severe allergic reactions that require immediate medical care and, in rare cases, may cause death.
Protect Yourself
- Wear light-colored, smooth-finished clothing.
- Avoid perfumed soaps, shampoos, and deodorants.
- Do not wear cologne or perfume.
- Wear clean clothing and bathe daily.
- Wear clothing to cover as much of the body as possible.
- Avoid flowering plants when possible.
- Keep work areas clean. Some insects are attracted to discarded food.
- Remain calm and still if a single stinging insect is flying around. (Swatting may cause it to sting.)
- If attacked by several stinging insects, run to get away. (Bees release a chemical when they sting, which attracts other bees.)
- Go indoors.
- Shaded areas are better than open areas.
- Do not jump into water. Some insects are known to hover above the water.
- If an insect is inside your vehicle, stop slowly, and open all the windows.
- Workers with a history of severe allergic reactions to insect bites or stings should carry an epinephrine autoinjector and wear medical identification jewelry stating their allergy.
First Aid
If a worker is stung by a stinging insect:
- Call 9-1-1 (from a landline) or 630-252-1911 (from a cell phone) to report the incident.
- Have someone stay with the worker to be sure that they do not have an allergic reaction.
- Wash the site with soap and water.
- Remove the stinger using gauze wiped over the area or by scraping a fingernail over the area.
- Never squeeze the stinger or use tweezers.
- Apply ice to reduce swelling.
- Do not scratch the sting as this may increase swelling, itching, and risk of infection.
To learn more on how you can reduce your chance of being stung, check out this safety share on wasps and bees.
Sources:
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Protecting Yourself from Stinging Insects (NIOSH)