ECI – Engineers Construction

With summer comes hot days which can reach 90 degrees or more.  These conditions raise the concern for heat-related illnesses,  such as heat stress or heat stroke. Please be exceptionally aware and cautious if you are doing any hot work such as paving, torch work, arc welding, or cad welding.

A good indicator of heat and its effect on us is by the Heat Index, which is based upon both heat and humidity.  The dangerous conditions are depicted on this chart from the National Weather Service:

For more information, check out this link to NWS:

http://www.nws.noaa.gov/os/heat/index.shtml#heatindex

HEAT STROKE & HEAT EXHAUSTION

Here are a couple of good reference links:

CDC Heat Stroke & Heat Exhaustion

OSHA Technical Manual on Heat Stress

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related disorder. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given.  CALL 911 Immediately for Heat Stroke!!

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of the water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. Workers most prone to heat exhaustion are those that are elderly, have high blood pressure, and those working in a hot environment.