Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Do not allow workers to push themselves or to be pushed to keep on
working when they begin to feel ill from the heat. Supervisors should insist
that workers take the time necessary to cool down. Under extreme circum-
stances, it may be necessary to stop work altogether, unless additional cooling
garments are used.
"Toughing it out" is dangerous. Workers are in danger of becoming seri-
ously ill or dying when either they or their supervisors fail to recognize the
need for breaks to cool off under heat stress conditions. With heat exhaustion
and heat stroke, the flow of blood to the brain decreases and mental function
becomes impaired. A worker will become less aware of his or her condition
and may become aggressive, try to work harder, and resist being told to stop
work. There have been fatalities where workers pushed themselves harder when
they should have been forcibly stopped from continuing to work.
2.
Rotating Tasks
When possible, rotate heavier tasks among workers in the best physical
condition, and alternate heavy work with light and medium work.
3.
Shifting Times for Certain Activities
When possible, schedule heavy tasks and work requiring protective gear
for cooler hours of the day, such as in the early morning or at night, but be
aware that cooler, early morning temperatures can mislead some workers to
think that heat stress will not occur under these conditions. The relative hu-
midity is usually highest at this time. Very high humidity limits evaporation
of sweat, even at cooler temperatures. This can prevent adequate cooling of the
body and lead to serious heat illness. When the relative humidity is above
70%, heavy work can be particularly risky. Workers should still be alert to
heat strain, take rest breaks to cool down, and drink enough water to replace
body fluid lost from perspiration.
4.
Postponing Non-Essential Tasks During Heat Spells
With unusually hot weather lasting longer than two days, heat can build
up in the environment both at work and at home, and the body can become
progressively dehydrated. Chronic dehydration can occur without any signs of
thirst; in its early stages it may be indicated by a lack of alertness. During
heat spells, increase water consumption both on and off the job, and postpone
nonessential tasks likely to cause severe heat strain until after the heat spell is
over. For tasks which cannot be postponed, special measures should be taken,
such as:
