Protecting Your Employees in the Houston Heat

It's summer in Houston, and that means heat and humidity are very real factors in many businesses in this part of Texas. At Workplace Safety Screenings, we work to increase safety and productivity, and lower your liability. How can we help you this summer? With tips for keeping your employees safe, even in 100+-degree temperatures.

The greatest danger to employees in the summer sun is heat stroke. The symptoms of heat stroke are as follows, according to Web MD: 

The hallmark symptom of heat stroke is a core body temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. But fainting may be the first sign.

Other symptoms may include:

• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness and light-headedness
• Lack of sweating despite the heat
• Red, hot, and dry skin
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat, which may be either strong or weak
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness

How can you prevent heat stroke? 

There are simple precautions you and your managers can take to help keep your employees safe this summer. 

• Provide extra fluids for all outdoor employees. Employees will need more than 8 glasses of water or other hydrating beverages a day. In the heat, salt depletion is also an issue. Consider adding Gatorade or other sports drinks to the mix.
• Provide training on heat stroke and the symptoms. Many of the symptoms will be noticed by the victim before anyone else--make sure your employees know what to look for. 
• Provide opportunities for shade breaks. Even if your employees are working outside, if you have the ability to provide breaks from the sun and heat, it will help the employees. 

Before heat stroke sets in, employees can suffer from heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion can be completely cured with time inside and cool water. However, once an employee has crossed the threshold to heat stoke, emergent care is required.  

Please stay safe in the summer heat. If you need more tips on making a safe and productive workplace while lowering liability, give us a call at Workplace Safety Screenings. We're happy to help.