It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity! Unless you work outdoors, that is. Then it’s both. Working outside on a nice summer day can be a pleasure. But if your job takes you outdoors when it’s hot and humid, it can stop being pleasurable and become downright dangerous. In 2015 alone, 37 workers died and 2,010 were injured from environmental heat exposure.

The dangers of heat
Preparing for and handling working in heat and humidity can provide protection from potentially deadly conditions. Your body is designed to cool itself and normally does a good job. But, if you’re exposed to extreme heat for too long, sweat a lot and don’t rehydrate, your cooling system may fail. If that happens, watch out! A heat-related illness can start slowly—you may not even realize it’s happening—but it can quickly get worse if it’s not treated.

Heat-related illnesses and warning signs

• Basically, heat cramps are Charley horses and can be an early warning sign of heat-related illness.
• Heat exhaustion symptoms include increased body temperature (as high as 104°F) and cold, clammy skin. Untreated, it can lead to heatstroke.
• Heatstroke is life-threatening and can cause brain damage, organ failure, or even death. Body temperature goes over 104°F. The victim may stop sweating even though his/her skin may be hot, and could also become confused or irritable. Medical attention is critical.

Major warning signs of heat-related illness include:

• Muscle cramps 
• Nausea or vomiting        
• Weakness          
• Headache
• Dizziness/feeling light-headed
• Confusion

Avoiding the dangers of too much heat
Not everyone reacts to too much heat exposure the same way nor experiences all the classic symptoms of heat-related illness. If your employees ever work in hot conditions, they should know the related risks and preventive measures so they can protect themselves. Practicing basic precautions can help make working in hot weather more bearable and less dangerous.

• Pace yourself when working in the heat—don’t overdo it.
• Hydrate with plenty of water or sports drinks, but no alcohol or caffeine.
• Dress appropriately—light-colored, lightweight, loose fitting clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat, if possible.
• Stay out of the midday sun whenever possible. Do the harder work during the cooler parts of the day. Take breaks in the shade.
• Wear sunscreen. A sunburn makes it harder for your body to cool itself.
• Certain medical conditions or medications can make you more vulnerable to over-heating.
• Keep an eye on co-workers. If someone is showing any of the symptoms of heat illness, notify your supervisor immediately.