Heat Injuries are totally preventable

When a heat injury occurs, it is an indication of failure in one or more components of the prevention system. This makes prevention at management/supervisor level even more important.

A good understanding of how to prevent heat injuries will go a long way towards the reduction of the incidence of heat injuries.


The three types of heat injuries:

1-Heat cramps (Heat Syncope) - are the result of excessive salt and water losses due to profuse sweating in individuals whose bodies are attempting to rapidly lose heat. It presents as intermittent muscle cramps, which usually occur on the legs (calves and thighs).

2-Heat exhaustion (Heat Syncope) - is a more severe form of heat injury. It implies a significant loss of water from the body. The signs and symptoms are weakness, exhaustion, headaches, dizziness and profuse sweating with an elevated body temperature.

3-Heat stroke - is the most serious form of heat injuries. It manifests with a body core temperature of 105.8°F and above. Individuals may present with confusion, aggressive behavior and may progress into a comatosed state. It is a medical emergency!

HEAT GAIN AND HEAT LOSS

HEAT GAIN by the body is due to:

#-Heat generated within the body by muscle activity and other body functions
#-Direct radiation from the sun’s rays
#-Heat transfer from the air
#-High humidity which hinders the cooling of the body through the evaporation of sweat

HEAT LOSS is achieved by:

#-Evaporation of sweat
#-Radiation of heat outwards from the body surface
#-Transfer of heat from the skin to the surrounding air (convection)
#-Breathing
#-Urination

BODY HEAT REGULATION: "STAYING SAFE"

#-In order for the body to lose heat adequately, regular rest in a cool or shady environment is also required. This allows the heat loss process to keep up with and "overtake" the heat gain process. Concurrent hydration is critical.

#-High air temperature, high relative humidity and exposure to the sun make it difficult for individuals to regulate their body temperature.

#-Excessive clothing will prevent heat from being lost to the environment.
When the environmental conditions (direct sunlight or high humidity) and/ or clothing prevent the heat generated within the body from being dissipated, the body temperature will rise significantly. If this cycle is not stopped, heat injuries will occur