Government Warns Outdoor Workers About Seriousness of Heat Illnesses
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Hemera/Thinkstock(NEW YORK) — As the temperatures soar, government officials are warning employers of outdoor workers about the dangers of heat illnesses.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Department of Labor have begun their yearly awareness campaign, urging employers to take precautions for their outdoor laborers who are at higher risk for heat illness.
“Whenever there is high heat, outdoor workers are at increased risk for heat related illnesses and death. In fact, ever year thousands of workers experience heat related illnesses and dozens more are killed by heat,” warned Dr. David Michaels with the Department of Labor’s Occupational Health and Safety Division.
“Workers in transportation, sanitation recycling, building and grounds maintenance, landscaping services, oil and gas drilling operations, and anyone else who does strenuous work in the outdoor air” are particularly at higher risk.
For workers in these fields, Michaels has three words: “Water. Rest. Shade.”
“If outdoor workers take these precautions it can make the difference between life and death,” Michaels said.
“This means regular breaks for workers so they can cool down. It means regular access to water so workers can stay hydrated. It means training for workers on the symptoms of heat illness,” he added.
The NOAA’s Dr. Louis Uccellini also shared safety tips his office is recommending to employers.
“Wear light colored, lightweight clothing, drink plenty of water, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sun during the peak hours and use sunscreen,” he said, adding that heat related illnesses are more serious than people think.
“The 10-year annual average mortality from heat stands at 658. On average that is more deaths than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined,” he warned.
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