Preventing Heat Stress
Workers wearing protective clothing, particularly in hot environments or within containment structures, can face a risk from heat stress if proper control measures are not used.
Safety Toolbox Talks : Heat Stress
There are many factors that have a role in creating an occupational heat stress risk to workers. These factors include:
- Environmental conditions (air temperature, humidity, sunlight, and air speed)
- Presence of heat sources (hot tar ovens or furnaces)
- Level of physical activity due to workload
- Clothing that can reduce the body's ability to lose heat
- Individual/personal physical risk factors
Below is a list of ways to help prevent heat stress.
- discuss heat stress signs and symptoms
- use appropriate work/rest schedules
- provide heat stress monitoring
- choose less insulating, yet adequate, protective clothing
- drink electrolytes throughout the day
For more information on heat stress see Course 602, Heat and Cold Stress Safety and OSHA's Heat Stress Quick Card.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-7. How does wearing protective clothing increase the likelihood of heat stress?
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