Safety Tip

Heat Exhaustion 

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

Symptoms for Heat Exhaustion: 

• Heavy sweating 
• Rapid heart rate 
• Extreme weakness or fatigue 
• Dizziness, confusion; person may faint 
• Nausea, vomiting 
• Clammy, moist skin; there may be ‘goose’ bumps when in the heat 
• Pale OR flushed face (complexion) 
• Muscle cramps 
• Slightly elevated body temperature; could have tingling sensation in legs/arms 
• Fast and shallow breathing 
• Irritability 
• Headache 

Heat Illness Can Be Prevented! 

• Monitor yourself & others for signs of heat illness. Encourage each other! 
• Keep plenty of cool water & electrolyte replacement on hand. 
• Urine should be pale. 
• Adequate breaks / rest periods. 

First Aid for Heat Exhaustion: 

• Immediately call for medical assistance.
• Move person to shade; a cool area as possible 
• If conscious, give employee plenty of cool water 
• Loosen excess clothing and boots 
• Apply cool water to employee’s body and fan employee ~ Stop cooling if the person to shiver! 

Resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health