Joe Whiteman, Director of Safety Services
The Voice Newsletter June 2024

As the summer months approach, ASCC members face the challenge of combating heat illness among their workers. With the sun beating down and temperatures soaring, it's crucial to prioritize the health and safety of workers on all our projects. Proper onboarding, acclimatization, and adherence to federal standards are essential for preventing heat-related illnesses on the job site.

Understanding the Federal Heat Illness Standard for Construction

The Federal Heat Illness Standard for Construction provides a comprehensive framework for protecting workers from the dangers of extreme heat. It outlines specific requirements for employers, including:

• Onboarding and Training: Employers must ensure that all workers receive adequate training on recognizing the signs and symptoms of heat illness and understand the importance of staying hydrated and seeking shade.
• Acclimatization: New workers and those returning from an extended absence should be gradually exposed to working in hot conditions to allow their bodies to acclimatize. This process helps reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
• Shade and Water Requirements: Employers must provide access to shaded areas where workers can take breaks and cool down. Additionally, potable drinking water must be readily available to ensure proper hydration throughout the workday.

Recognizing Heat Illness Signs and Symptoms

Heat illness can manifest in various forms, ranging from mild heat cramps to severe heat stroke. It's essential for workers and supervisors to recognize the signs and symptoms, including:

• Heat Cramps: Muscle cramps or spasms, usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs.
• Heat Exhaustion: Profuse sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and elevated body temperature.
• Heat Stroke: A life-threatening condition characterized by a high body temperature (above 103°F), confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures.
• Taking Proper Precautions

To prevent heat-related illnesses, you should implement the following precautions:

• Hydration: Encourage workers to drink water frequently, even if they do not feel thirsty. Avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
• Scheduled Breaks: Implement a regular schedule of breaks in shaded areas to allow workers to rest and cool down.
• Appropriate Clothing: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics to help regulate body temperature.
• Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with a high SPF rating and utilize other forms of sun protection to reduce the risk of sunburn and heat absorption.

Checking State-Specific Heat Illness Standards

While the Federal Heat Illness Standard provides a baseline for protecting workers, it's recommended that employers also check their state regulations for any additional requirements. Some states have their own heat illness prevention standards, which may include specific provisions tailored to local conditions and industries. For example, California's standard mandates additional rest breaks and heat illness prevention training for employees, while Washington requires employers to provide cool-down rest periods when temperatures exceed certain thresholds. These state-specific requirements ensure comprehensive protection for workers in varying climates and working conditions. Most companies that operate in any of those states should already be aware of those specific requirements however, if your organization operates in multiple states, take some time to ensure that any state specific requirements are incorporated into your companies program for that region.

These states include:

• California
• Washington
• Minnesota
• Oregon

Responding to Heat Illness Emergencies

If a worker exhibits signs of heat illness, it's crucial to take immediate action:

• Move to Shade: Move the affected individual to a shaded area and have them rest, if possible, in a climate-controlled field office/work trailer. Allow enough time for the worker to cool down, recuperate and hydrate.
• Hydration: Offer water or electrolyte-replenishing drinks to help cool their body temperature.
• Medical Attention: If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Conclusion

By prioritizing heat illness prevention measures and adhering to both federal and state standards, ASCC members can create a safer working environment for their teams during the hot summer months. Proper onboarding, acclimatization, access to shade and water, and vigilant monitoring of workers' health are essential practices for mitigating the risks associated with working in high temperatures