It’s summer! Well,
almost. This year summer’s official beginning is slated for June 20, but with
the recent wave of warm temperatures and sunshine days, it feels like it’s
already here.
While many of us look forward
to a vacation during the summer, one thing we can’t take a vacation from is
safety; especially in the workplace. Summer brings its own list of safety and health
risks to the party; whether you’re working indoors or outdoors.
Increased
heat in the summer is definitely a game changer. Things like dehydration, sunburn
and heat-related illnesses like exhaustion, cramps and heat stroke, become
common phrases in our vocabulary. But, there’s nothing common about them. According
to a report from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), in
2014, 2,630 workers suffered from heat illnesses with eighteen dying from heat
stroke and related causes at the job.
Preventive measures
help lessen these risks and create a safer environment for all. Here are some things
to keep in mind.
·
Stay hydrated – make
sure employees have ready access to water and encourage them to drink that
water every 15 minutes, even if they are not thirsty.
·
Work schedules may
have to be modified to allow for additional rest periods; for outdoor workers
it may mean extra time in the shade. Provide a cool area where employees can
rest.
·
Plan for emergencies
and make sure workers are trained on prevention. Make sure everyone knows the
signs of heat-related illnesses and what to do in case of emergency.
·
Keep an eye on fellow
workers. Monitor them for signs like dizziness, headaches, nausea, weakness,
excessive sweating and signs of confusion.
Make this summer – and
your work place – the best it can be. Remember that safety is important all
year long.
Posted by MJ Thomas
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