In the manufacturing environment, there are several potential health risks to human workers, including injury from machinery, trip or fall hazards, and excessive heat from machinery. Because of these hazards, heat illness is a common workplace hazard for those in the manufacturing industry. Heat Illness is a severe medical condition that arises from the human body’s inability to cope with excessive heat. Thankfully, there are many ways to recognize the onset of heat-related conditions and take steps to combat them.
What is heat illness?
The normal temperature of the human body is around 98.6°F. The body regulates this temperature in various ways, such as by shivering to generate warmth when it is cold and sweating when it is hot, with evaporation acting as a means of cooling the skin. When the body is unable to get rid of excessive heat from exertion or the environment, many physiological changes happen in an attempt to restore temperature balance. Blood vessels dilate to bring blood closer to the skin, where excess heat can siphon off, sweat glands draw water from the bloodstream to produce sweat, and metabolism slows down. If this situation persists for an extended period, the blood flowing to the skin diverts from the brain, leading to confusion. Additionally, sweating leads to dehydration, and a slowed metabolism leads to fatigue and muscle cramps. Some symptoms of Heat Illness are:
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Heat cramps
- Muscle spasms
- Thirst
- Nausea
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness and fatigue
- Elevated body temperature
- Fast and weak pulse
- Fast and shallow breathing
- Pale, clammy, and moist skin
Causes of heat illness in manufacturing
Many factors might lead to Heat Illness in manufacturing workers. It is important to remember that heat illness can occur at any time, often unexpectedly. The following are some of the most common causes of heat-related ailments in manufacturing:
- Time spent in hot environments such as boiler rooms, bakeries, steel mills, foundries, or direct sunlight without shade.
- Lack of proper hydration or access to clean drinking water in these environments
- Stale, stagnant air or a lack of airflow in the environment
- Improper nutrition or calorie consumption
- Overexertion occurring without proper breaks or time to recover
Treatment of heat illness
Even minor heat-related symptoms warrant attention. Conditions brought on by hot environments often escalate without warning, with symptoms quickly overwhelming the victim before proper treatment. Early treatment of symptoms is crucial to prevent them from worsening and necessitating medical intervention or hospital visits. Some symptoms, such as mental confusion, also have the potential to cause other unsafe or dangerous hazards, such as poor judgment and accidents. Treat a heat illness victim with the following steps:
- Move the person out of the heat or sun and into the shade or a cooler environment.
- Administer cold water in small sips.
- Loosen tight clothing or remove it.
- Apply a cold cloth to the skin.
- Sit near a fan, and spray the person with mists.
- Go to the ER if the condition does not improve in 30 minutes.
Preventing heat illness
The most productive way to deal with heat illness in manufacturing environments is to prevent it in the first place. It is not always possible to reduce the heat from machinery or ovens in the working environment, but the worker has several options for dealing with excessive heat in the workplace before heat illness becomes a factor.
- Drink water frequently throughout the day, even when not at work.
- When possible, take periodic breaks away from the hot environment.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Wear sun protection outdoors, such as a hat and sunscreen.
- Monitor urine output and know the warning signs of dehydration.
Quick treatment for heat illness often results in a good prognosis, with a full recovery in just one or two days.
In conclusion, recognizing and preventing heat illness in manufacturing environments is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of workers. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment of heat-related ailments, we can take proactive steps to mitigate risks and create a safer workplace. Remember, early intervention is key in addressing heat illness, and proper training and awareness can make a significant difference. That's why Ving offers heat illness prevention training and toolbox talks ready for you to share today. Empower yourself with the knowledge and resources needed to protect your team from the dangers of excessive heat. Stay informed, stay safe, and let Ving be your partner in promoting a healthy work environment.
Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for BST GmbH
Leave a Comment