Prevention of Heat Related Illness

Hot and dry/humid weather conditions like that which we experience in KwaZulu-Natal can have a dangerous effect on the health of workers who aren’t prepared for it. Exposure to high temperatures for lengthy periods of time increases the chances of contracting sunburn, heat exhaustion, heat stroke or heat cramps. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and in extreme cases can result in death.

Prevention is better than cure.

Normal body temperature is 37°C, when it rapidly rises above this to 41°C, heat stress sets in. When this occurs, it is a life threatening condition requiring prompt and competent treatment.

Who is susceptible to heat related illness?

 New employees – it can take up to 2 months for somebody to acclimatize to heat in their specific work environment.
Older individuals tend to be less resilient and often succumb to excessive heat exposure.
Anybody exposed to excessive temperatures for an extended period of time.
Persons under the influence of alcohol or suffering the consequences of alcohol intake.
Foreigners –  not used to the natural climate of the area.
Anybody who is ill, or whose body has been weakened due to illness.

Recognizing the symptoms of heat disorders:

• Extreme fatigue
• General weariness
• Muscular weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Mental disturbance/argumentative
• Failure to sweat – serious!

Treating the symptoms of heat disorders:

If a person displays one or more of the above symptoms, a doctor or a clinic needs to be contacted immediately for assistance.

• Move the individual to a cool well ventilated area.
• Attempt to reduce the core temperature of the body to below 39°C.
• Spray the victim with tepid water – to simulate sweating.
• Increase air movement around the body.
• When stable remove the individual to a clinic or doctor for treatment.

The most effective way of reducing core temperature is NOT to immerse the person in ice-cold water, but rather as described above. Ice-cold water could lead to shock as the body further increases its temperature to counter the cold water. The aim should be to stimulate sweating and natural cooling of the body. Get the exposed individual to medical care as soon as possible – Heat Stress kills.

Working in hot weather isn’t a killer if you are prepared for it. Dress appropriately, remember to drink often during the day, take needed rest breaks in cool shaded areas, and recognize the signs of over-heating.

Neels Nortjé | HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGEr