{"id":3327,"date":"2011-08-01T10:00:31","date_gmt":"2011-08-01T15:00:31","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.paristn.net\/articles\/?p=3327"},"modified":"2011-08-01T08:46:03","modified_gmt":"2011-08-01T13:46:03","slug":"osha-offers-hot-weather-tips-for-businesses-and-workers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.paristn.net\/articles\/2011\/08\/01\/osha-offers-hot-weather-tips-for-businesses-and-workers\/","title":{"rendered":"OSHA offers hot weather tips for businesses and workers"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"OSHAWashington, D.C.<\/strong> – The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has made the following information available for workers who are having to deal with extreme heat while on the job.<\/p>\n

Hot weather is here. When you are working outside, extreme heat is not only uncomfortable\u2026it can kill. Last year, thousands of workers in the United States got sick from exposure to heat on the job, and more than 30 workers died. They have a simple message for employers and workers…<\/p>\n

Heat illnesses can be deadly!<\/p>\n

A construction worker began installing a roof one hot sunny morning. Two hours later, he complained of feeling ill and vomited., however he continued working. At 3:00 p.m., when he climbed down the ladder, he was confused and unsteady. He missed a step and fell. He was taken to the hospital and later died. His body temperature was 108 degrees.<\/p>\n

Another young worker arrived for her shift at a vineyard. She was pregnant, and her job required her to spend long hours tying grapevines in the sun. As the day wore on, the temperature soared, eventually reaching triple digits. After nine hours of work, she collapsed from heat exhaustion. Two days later, she was dead. She was 17 years old.<\/p>\n

Every year, thousands of workers become sick from exposure to heat, and some even die. These illnesses and deaths are entirely preventable.<\/p>\n

Workers exposed to hot and humid conditions are at risk of heat illness, especially those doing heavy work tasks or using bulky protective clothing and equipment. Some workers might be at greater risk than others if they have not built up a tolerance to hot conditions.<\/p>\n

Beat the heat: Three Simple Steps<\/h3>\n

How can heat illness be prevented? Remember three simple words: water, rest, shade. Drinking water often, taking breaks, and limiting time in the heat can help prevent heat illness. Employers should include these prevention steps in worksite training and plans. Gradually build up to heavy work in hot conditions. This helps you build tolerance to the heat \u2013 or become acclimated. Employers should take steps that help workers become acclimated, especially workers who are new to working outdoors in the heat or have been away from work for a week or more. Gradually increase workloads and allow more frequent breaks during the first week of work. Also, it\u2019s important to know and look out for the symptoms of heat illness in yourself and others during hot weather. Plan for an emergency and know what to do \u2014 acting quickly can save lives!<\/p>\n