Transcript Diapositive 1 - Iron Ore Company of Canada

Single Page Lesson – Heat Stress
What is Heat Stress? Working in a hot environment puts stress on the body’s
cooling system. Exposure to heat combined with other stresses like hard physical
work, fluid loss, fatigue and/or some medical conditions can lead to heat-related
illness, disability, or even death.
The human body has a control mechanism to help keep the inner core temperature at
37°C (98.6°F). If the body’s core temperature rises, the body’s cooling mechanisms
will react in the following ways:
•
Blood flow to skin increases
•
Sweating increases
•
Heart rate increases
•
Core temperature drops and stabilizes to a safe level
Heat Stress Disorders: There are various disorders that can occur due to heat
stress.
•
Sunburn (mild to severe)
•
Heat Rash (“prickly heat”)
•
Heat Cramps (muscle craps in arms, legs, or stomach)
•
Heat Exhaustion (more severe)
•
Heat Stroke (medical emergency)
In addition to these disorders, heat stress gives rise to other hazards in the workplace
such as fogged glasses, sweat in the eyes, slippery hands, dizziness and fainting.
Occupational Hygiene has adopted a set of work-to-rest ratio temperature limits
designed to combat the onset of heat stress and heat stress related disorders.
These temperature limits are based on the WBGT (wet bulb globe temperature)
of surrounding air in the workplace.
The WBGT is an amalgamated temperature used to determine the effects of
temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation on the human body.
These temperature limits can be found in table form on the IOC intranet under:
HSE/Health/Thermal Stress/Heat Stress Tables
Managing Heat Stress: If working in
hot environments precautions should
be taken to protect yourself against
heat stress.
• Increase the frequency and length
of rest breaks
•Schedule hot jobs at cooler times
(night shift, morning, etc.)
• Frequent water consumption: drink
1 cup of cool water every 20 min
•Wear light, breathable clothing to
allow for air flow over the skin and
circulation
•Be aware of you’re body’s reaction to
the environment: If feeling dizzy,
fatigued, nauseated, overcome or
experience any unusual bodily
reaction…
Stop work and report to
Occupational Health
immediately.