Protecting Workers From Heat Illness

Whether you have a temp job, temp-to-perm, or full-time work— make sure to follow these precautions when outdoors.

 

We live in Florida, so we are all familiar with the oppressive heat of summer. The Central Florida workforce with jobs outside or in un-air conditioned spaces must take extra care in the heat. At KB Staffing, we take worker safety seriously. The summer heat is bad enough by itself, but some factors or conditions can put workers at a higher risk for heat illness, which include:

  • Direct sun exposure
  • Indoor exposure to other sources of heat
  • Physical exertion
  • Heavy protective clothing
  • Poor physical condition or health problems
  • Pregnancy
  • Advanced age
  • Some medications

We don’t want any of our valued contract workers to have problems with the heat, so we encourage all of our employees to make sure they have plenty of water on hand and take any precautions they can to protect themselves from excessive heat. It is also important to know the warning signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion so you can get help if necessary. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Thirst
  • Weakness
  • Heavy sweating
  • Irritability
  • Elevated body temperature
  • Decreased urination

 

If you seem to be suffering from heat exhaustion, get to a cooler place and drink plenty of liquids. Remove unnecessary clothing, and wash the head, face, and neck with cold water. Visit a clinic or emergency room for evaluation. Heat stroke is even more dangerous. The signs of heat stroke are:

  • Confusion
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Very high body temperature
  • Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating.

 

Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. First aid measures, such as those for heat exhaustion, should be started immediately, while emergency medical help is being summoned. This is not a condition to take lightly!

 

If you’re looking for a new job this summer (whether it be full-time, part-time, or temp-to-permanent work), and it involves high temperatures, spend some time in the heat before your first day, to acclimate yourself. It won’t be comfortable, but your body needs some preparation for extreme conditions.

 

For all your Central Florida staffing needs, you can count on us here at KB Staffing. We have full time temp jobs and temp-to-hire jobs available year-round and for those looking to hire we have staff on demand. We are a full-service staffing company in Polk County, and we can help you with personalized staffing solutions for your hiring needs.  Call 863-875-5721 today or contact us online.

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