Deadly workplace hazards: Heat and humidity

Today's Know-it-all: N.C. Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry
What she knows: Nothing is more important than our worker's safety regardless of the time of year, but summer does present additional problems for outside workers.
What's up? Workers who are out in the heat and sun face the constant danger of heat stress during the summer months. Farmworkers are the first who come to mind, but construction workers and manufacturing workers are also at risk.
What's the danger? Heat cramps,
heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most serious disorders associated with heat stress.
Why you should care: These conditions can be deadly if not treated properly.
What employers should do: Take extra precautions to make sure your workers are protected.
Preventing heat-related illness:
-- Know the signs and symptoms; monitor yourself and co-workers.
-- Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks and heavy meals.
-- Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.
-- Drink lots of water, about 1 cup every 15 minutes, even if you're not thirsty.
-- Rest regularly in cool, shaded or air conditioned areas.
Learn about prevention, treament:
http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/tips/heat.html
http://www.erh.noaa.gov/lwx/heat.htm

Did you know?
North Carolina ranks in the top three states for heat-related deaths among farm workers.

Symptoms, treatment, resources, and CDC report:

The following information will help you identify heat-related illnesses:

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
-- Headaches, dizziness, light headedness or fainting
-- Weakness and moist skin
--  Mood changes, irritability, confusion
-- Upset stomach, vomiting

Symptoms of Heat Stroke
--  Dry, hot skin with no sweating
--  Mental confusion or losing consciousness
--  Seizures or convulsions

What to Do for Heat-Related Illness
--  Call 911 (or local emergency number) immediately.

While Waiting for Help to Arrive
--  Move person to a cool, shaded area.
--  Loosen or remove heavy clothing.
--  Provide cool drinking water (only if victim is conscious).
--  Fan and mist the person with cool water; cool the victim's head with a wet compress.

Heat-Related Deaths Among Crop Workers -- United States, 1992-2006
Check the CDC's report:
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5724a1.htm

The NCDOL Agricultural Safety and Health Bureau has led the department's efforts to educate employers and workers about the deadly effects of heat-related illnesses.
The Bureau developed a DVD this spring on four hazards in agriculture. One segment deals with heat stress. A live streaming version of this segment is available under "Quick Clicks" on the NCDOL Web site, www.nclabor.com.

Copies of the DVD are available for $3 each from the Department of Communication Services at N.C. State University, (919) 513-3155.