According to the Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA), thousands of workers become sick from occupational heat exposure each year. However, heat-related illnesses are preventable.
With today’s temperature expected to reach 108 in parts of California – and 100+ high temps predicted for many days during the next two weeks - Cal/OSHA is reminding employers to observe outdoor workers toiling in high heat for signs and symptoms of heat illness. It’s a warning that should be heeded by those in other parts of the country, as well.
Athletics scholars have studied heat-related illnesses (HRIs) and their impact on athletes of all ages at all levels. Their discoveries can help safety professionals prevent HRIs in the workplace.
Heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be deadly or debilitating. Other illnesses such as heat cramps and heat rash are painful conditions that can increase a worker’s risk of injury.
With temperatures across the nation edging upward as the official start of the summer season approaches, the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) has made a variety of critical resources available online, to help workers and employers can use to stay safe during the summer heat.
