Higher Risk of Heat-Related Illness in Australian Summers
Summer is a beautiful time of the year in Australia, but it is also excruciatingly hot in most parts of the country. New research1 shows that Australian summers are now twice as long as winters and temperatures are increasing more than the global average. With the longer hours of daylight, Australian’s are also experiencing more heatwaves, droughts, and an increase in bushfires.
It is important to stay vigilant and take precautions in such oppressive heat as it can cause many heat-related illnesses. For workers who undertake most of their work outdoors or in confined spaces, it not as simple. Because of the nature of their jobs, they spend many hours in the scorching sun or in poorly ventilated areas and are at risk of heat stress.
Prevention is always better than cure! Workers in the construction, mining and building industry should be informed on how stress occurs and recognise the common symptoms of heat stress. With social distancing and wearing masks to mitigate the risk of contracting COVID-19, the signs of heat exhaustion become more difficult to recognise.
Heat Stress Symptoms
Heat Stress occurs when the body is unable to cool itself to maintain a healthy temperature. Normally the body cools itself by sweating but sometimes sweating isn’t enough and the body temperature keeps rising. The body’s normal operating temperature is 36-37°C if the body temperature is above 40°C the person becomes at risk of having a heat stroke.
The symptoms of heat stress can be easily overlooked as it is similar to many other medical conditions. Some common signs of heat exhaustion include:
Heat Rash – Sometimes called “prickly heat”, it is a skin condition caused by excessive sweating. It looks like a cluster of pimples or small blisters and most likely occur on the neck, upper chest, and groin area.
Dizziness and fainting - As the blood flow to the brain reduces due to fatigue in the heat it results in the feeling of light-headedness and fainting.
Heat Cramps – Strenuous activity in hot weather can deplete the body of salt and water. This leads to muscle pains and spasms usually in the abdomen, legs, and arms.
Flushed Skin – Your skin may turn red as your body temperature rises
Racing Heat Rate – Your pulse may significantly increase because of heat stress. This occurs because of the tremendous burden on your heart to help cool your body.
Altered mental state or behaviour –Such as confusion, agitation, irritability, slurred speech, and seizures.
Treatment of Common Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Some symptoms can be treated by providing first aid, but it is important to note that if symptoms get worse, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. If a worker has a pre-existing medical condition or has experienced a heat-related illness before, they are also more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Symptoms of Heat Stress
First Aid Treatment
Heat Rash
Move worker to a cooler, less humid environment.
Keep the affected area dry and remove unnecessary clothing, including PPE.
Apply a cold compress.
Fainting Symptoms
Lie the worker flat immediately with their legs slightly raised.
Do not raise your head.
Treat as for heatstroke.
Dehydration symptoms
Drink water.
Avoid caffeinated, carbonated and alcoholic drinks, and salt tablets.
Loosen tight clothing and remove unnecessary clothing, including personal protective equipment (PPE).
In cases of extreme heat or dehydration, replace electrolytes.
Heat Cramps
Stop all activity
Rest somewhere cool.
Drink water or oral rehydration solution.
Seek medical advice if there is no improvement.
Resources and Guides to Manage Heat Stress in the Workplace
Here are some useful resources to help manage the risk of heat stress while working outdoors and how you can prevent heat-related illness in hot weather.
Resource
Link
Downloadable Guidance Material by SafeWork Australia
