Protecting Workers from the Effects of Heat

sweating

As much of the Southeast is battling record high temperatures this late Spring, NASP thought we would share with you the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses in an attempt to prevent future employee illness.

Heat illnesses can be categorized into 4 types: Heat Stroke, Heat Exhaustion, Heat Cramps, and Heat Rash. Knowing the signs and symptoms of heat illnesses may be the difference between life or death.

Know the Signs

1. Heat Rash

Heat Rash is the most common problem in hot work environments. Heat rash is caused by sweating and looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. The best treatment for heat rash is to provide a cooler, less humid work environment and the rash area should be kept dry. Ointments and creams should not be used on a heat rash. Anything that makes the skin warm or moist may make the rash worse.

2. Heat Cramps

Heat Cramps are muscle pains usually caused by the loss of body salts and fluid during sweating. Workers with heat cramps should replace fluid loss by drinking water and/or carbohydrate-electrolyte replacement liquids (such as sports drinks) every 15-20 minutes.

3. Heat Exhaustion

Heat Exhaustion is the next most serious heat-related health problem. The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion are headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, confusion, thirst, heavy sweating, and a body temperature greater than 100.4oF. Workers with heat exhaustion should be removed from the hot area and given liquids to drink. Workers with signs of heat exhaustion should be taken to a clinic or emergency room for medical evaluation and treatment.

4. Heat Stroke

Heat Stroke is the most serious heat-related health problem. Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature is above 104oF. The signs of heat stroke include confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures. Workers experiencing heat stroke have very high body temperatures and may stop sweating. If a worker shows signs of possible heat stroke, get medical help immediately, and call 911. Until help arrives, move the worker to a shady, cool area and remove as much clothing as possible. Wet the worker with cool water and circulate the air to speed cooling.

Purchase NASP’s Certified Safety Manager Course

Related Posts

A Shifting Landscape: Analyzing OSHA’s Proposed Changes to Respirator Medical Evaluations

A Shifting Landscape: Analyzing OSHA’s Proposed Changes to Respirator Medical Evaluations

07.11.2025 Compliance
A significant change may be on the horizon for how we manage respiratory protection programs. The Occupational Safety and Health…
Read More
Strengthening Communication and Trust to Protect Bilingual Construction Workers

Strengthening Communication and Trust to Protect Bilingual Construction Workers

07.11.2025 Safety Culture
Language and cultural barriers continue to pose serious challenges to workplace safety in the U.S. construction industry, where Hispanic workers…
Read More
New York Training Provider Pleads Guilty to Selling Fake OSHA Cards

New York Training Provider Pleads Guilty to Selling Fake OSHA Cards

07.11.2025 Current Events
A New York City training provider and its former president have pleaded guilty to charges related to issuing tens of…
Read More
cta1-img

See our available Live and online cOURSES