Prevention of Heat-Related Illnesses

The hot and dry or humid weather conditions commonly found in KwaZulu-Natal can be dangerous for workers if they are not adequately prepared. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures increases the risk of developing heat-related illnesses such as 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

A normal body temperature is 37°C, when it rises rapidly to 41°C, heat stress sets in.  This is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt and competent treatment.

Who is susceptible to heat-related illnesses?

• New employees – it can take up to 2 months to acclimatize to the heat in a 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.
• Persons under the influence of alcohol or experiencing the consequences of alcohol intake.
• Foreigners who are 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
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Mental disturbance/argumentative
• Failure to sweat – This is extremely serious.

Treating the symptoms of heat disorders

• If a person displays one or more of the above symptoms, seek immediate 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 sweat.
• Increase air movement around the body.
• When stable, move 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 simulate sweating.  Obtain medical care as soon as possible – Heat stress kills.

Working in hot weather is manageable if you are prepared for it. Dress appropriately, remember to drink sufficient water, rest in cool shaded areas and recognise the signs of overheating.

Neil Enslin

Head: Occupational Health and Safety

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/warning.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-exhaustion/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373253

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16425-heat-illness

https://www.mediclinicinfohub.co.za/heatstroke/