As the temperature climbs, Environmental Health & Safety offers a few reminders on ways to beat the heat. Remember heat can affect you indoors or outdoors.
These tips can help you avoid heat stress:
- Acclimate
- Drink Water
- Rest
- Shade
- Watch out for each other
Acclimate yourself to working in the heat.
Gradually increase your workload and take more frequent breaks during the first week of work. Gradual exposure to heat gives the body time to become accustomed to higher environmental temperatures.
Follow the 20% Rule. Day 1: work no more than 20% of the shift’s duration at full intensity in the heat. Each Following Day: Increase by no more than 20% per day.
Watch out for yourself and your team
Know your limitations, including your age and physical condition. Discuss with your health care provider how medications may affect your tolerance to heat.
Know the signs of heat stroke, which include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, heat cramps and heat rash.
Keep communications open.
Make sure your team knows where you are.
The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides extensive resources on Heat Risk and Illness Prevention. https://www.osha.gov/heat/more-resources
For guidance on heat stress prevention or to learn more about it, visit the Environmental Health and Safety website, call 865-974-5084, or email safety@utk.edu.