National Heat Awareness: Ways to Stay Cool on the Jobsite
As the spring season winds down and temperatures steadily rise, working outdoor conditions may feel more intense than usual. Every year, on the last Friday of May, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognizes National Heat Awareness Day. According to OSHA Training, every year, dozens of workers succumb, and thousands become sick while working in extreme heat or humid conditions.
Signs to Look Out For
Findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and OSHA show people with pre-existing health conditions are most at risk to be affected by extreme heat conditions. But heat stress can strike anyone. Here are some signs of distress that can occur in extremely hot conditions.
Sweating More Than Usual
This symptom is more likely to go under the radar because who doesn’t sweat in the heat? But if more sweat is pouring out than water is entering your body, this could become an early symptom of heat-related exhaustion and illness.
Fatigue
Feeling worn down is another under-the-radar symptom that could be considered a typical day on the job. Anything from muscle cramps, weakness, spasms, and pain indicates low sodium and water levels.
Feeling Out of It
Being unable to think straight, headaches, dizziness, light-headedness, and nausea are the more severe symptoms of a potential heat stroke where medical attention is needed as soon as possible.
Prevention
There’s a variety of gear for the jobsite to help prevent symptoms of heat exhaustion before they start. Professionals can beat the heat with a variety of cooling products from Klein Tools at City Electric Supply (CES).
- Personal jobsite fan
Clamp or hang a Klein Tools personal jobsite fan to take with you wherever you go. Get constant airflow for up to nine hours and adjust the fan cage from any angle for tight, stuffy spaces.
- Neck and face cooling band with UPF+ sun protection
Keep cool and soak up sweat with the Klein Tools Neck and Face Cooling Band. Wear it wet or dry over the neck, face, or hard hat to help regulate body temperature and protect from the sun’s harmful UV rays. It’s a quick and simple solution to protect yourself from overheating and damaging the skin.
- Attachable hard hat cooling fans
For even more portability, the Klein Tools Hard Hat Cooling Fan for Hard Hat and Safety Helmet provides constant airflow with quiet operation. Plus, it’s lightweight for comfort and durability. Keep the face, neck, and head cool simultaneously.
Be Aware, Stay Prepared
The dangers of extreme heat can sneak up on anyone, remember to always listen to your body. When you feel dehydrated, drink more water. Take breaks frequently in a shady area with fans and cooling bands. If you feel light-headed or nauseous, take precautions and call for help. Be aware and stay prepared in the summer heat.