How OSHA's new program aims to protect workers from heat stress
June 4, 2024
By Kyle Lewandowski | A Decade in Safety
By Kyle Lewandowski | A Decade in Safety
|
"It's 100 degrees in the shade!"
Heat is tolerable, maybe even welcome, when you’re relaxing with your beverage of choice. But for workers in numerous industries, the only choice is to forge ahead despite the sweltering temperatures. Heat is such a common experience. And with so many lighthearted connotations – grilling, sandy beaches, the summer breeze – it’s easy to underestimate. Plus, heat hazards tend to be considered minor and reversible. As a result, they can be sneaky, yet serious, occupational hazards. In fact, many heat-related injuries and deaths go unreported. Without proper mitigation strategies, hot working conditions can quickly lead to severe consequences. Why is heat a serious consideration on the job? Well, heat stress begins to occur at just under a 100-degree body temperature. At that point, the body struggles to control its temperature. Skin rash, excessive perspiration, cramps, dehydration, and heat stroke can soon follow (1). Additionally, 18 of the last 19 summers were the hottest on record, with workers tallying over 3,500 heat-related illnesses and injuries annually (2). (I wouldn’t bet on this summer going easy on us.) And that figure includes both outdoor workers exposed to heat and sun and those in demanding indoor environments such as foundries, paper mills, and automotive plants. OSHA agrees regarding the threat heat poses in the workplace. In 2022, OSHA launched an indoor and outdoor heat-related hazards National Emphasis Program (NEP). This NEP marks OSHA’s first nationwide measure to protect millions of workers from heat-related stress and illness. Features of the program include access to the three cornerstones of heat safety: water, rest, and shade. Other considerations include:
From there, companies can apply specific strategies and tools to mitigate harmful effects:
Lastly, consider a range of high-quality heat stress PPE.
In the end, the sun need not rain on our parade. We can continue to be productive and effective in hot conditions. We simply want to be aware and intentional in how we go about it. Sources:
Vertical Divider
|
|
