TOOLBOX TALK 22/60
TOPIC: HEAT STRESS
OBJECTIVE: TO ENSURE WORKERS ARE AWARE OF HEAT STRESS AND HOW TO PREVENT IT

Some things to know before you give your talk:

Every year we hear reports of people who become ill or die because of summer heat. Heat is an environmental hazard that can cause specific illnesses, decrease productivity, and increase accidents. Tolerance for heat varies greatly among people, although no one is entirely immune to heat stress problems. Dehydration is a problem because vast quantities of sweat must be produced to cool the body.

What are the signs of heat illnesses?

• Heat cramps: brief, periodic cramps in the muscles of the arms, legs, or abdomen.
• Heat exhaustion: tiredness, weakness, thirst, and dizziness, with occasional headache, nausea, diarrhoea, and fainting; skin is moist.
• Heat stroke: confusion, delirium, loss of consciousness, convulsions, coma, and dry skin.

What are the signs of heat illnesses?

• Drink plenty of fluids frequently, especially water. A glass every half hour when temperatures are high is more effective in the prevention of dehydration than larger amounts taken less frequently.

• Wear light weight clothing.
• Avoid stimulants when performing heavy physical activity in hot environments.
• If symptoms of heat exhaustion develop, the worker should report the situation to their supervisor immediately and go to a cooler area of the work site.
• First aid and or a visit to the clinic may be necessary.
• Heat stroke can be an immediate threat to life. Cooling with cold water or even ice must begin at once.
• Fluids with electrolytes are suggested.

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