Prevent Heat Stress at Work
Source: Workers Compensation Board of PEI
With the first heat wave of the summer in the forecast, the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) reminds all Islanders to take precautions to avoid heat stress at work.
Heat stress refers to a variety of heat-related disorders, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can lead to serious or even fatal injury. Symptoms may include weakness, muscle pain, light-headedness, nausea and high body temperatures.
Environmental hazards such as exposure to heat, high humidity and limited air flow can cause heat stress. Contributing factors may also include the worker’s hydration level, clothing, and physical exertion.
“The best defense against heat stress is prevention,” said Bill Reid, Director of Occupational Health and Safety. “It is important for everyone in the workplace to be aware of the hazards, to take adequate precautions to control the risks and to recognize the signs of heat stress.”
The WCB recommends the following to help reduce the risk of heat stress:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Limit sun exposure and wear sunscreen.
- Cover exposed skin with loose fitting, tightly woven clothing.
- Have adequate ventilation in the workplace.
- Take breaks in the shade or an air conditioned space, if possible.
- Keep everyone safe by providing adequate supervision and using a buddy system to watch for signs of heat stress in co-workers. Early detection is critical.
If you experience the initial signs of heat stress, remove yourself from the hazard, drink water, monitor the symptoms and advise someone in case you need further assistance or medical treatment.
More information is available in the WCB’s Guide to the Prevention of Heat Stress at Work. To learn more about safety matters at work, visit the Safe Workplaces section of the WCB website or call 902-368-5680 or 1-800-237-5049.
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