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How to Keep Your Employees Safe in the Heat

Summer is here, and so it the heat and humidity in Wisconsin. Heat Hazards have become one of the leading causes of health issues in the workplace. People who work outdoors are at a higher risk of heat related injuries and potentially death if they don’t take the heat seriously. Here are some tips to help you keep your employees safe during the summer months.

Hydration and Sunscreen

Making sure that you provide sunscreen and water for all your employees is extremely important. Sunscreen works best if applied at least 20 mins before being exposed to the sun. Employers should also encourage employees to take breaks in the shade when possible.

Sun Protective Clothing

Providing employees with sun protective gear, including neck sun protectors, sunglasses, and construction sun hats that shade their face, ears, and neck will reduce the risk of them getting sun related issues.

Recognize Extreme Heat Symptoms and How to Treat Them

Heat rash – Small red bumps grouped together that can sting and itch.This can be treated by keeping the area of the rash dry and relocating the employee to a cooler less humid environment.

Heat cramps – Involuntary muscle spasms while working in a hot environment due to dehydration most commonly in abdomen, arms, back, or legs. Can be treated by making sure they have enough water and moving them to a cool environment for a few hours. Seek medical help if the cramps do not subside in a couple of hours.

Heat stroke – Symptoms include confusion, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, seizures, and high body temperature. This is an emergency. Call 911 and encourage the employee to drink water and apply cold packs to their armpits.

EHS Management has a professional staff that can take you through the proper steps to improving your safety for your employees. Give us a call to set up an appointment or to answer your questions about safety in the workplace: 715-551-9503.