• How to Reduce the Potential for Heat Stress in the Work Place


    By Brad Tom

    Care must be taken in these summer month for our Hawaii workers who are exposed to extreme heat or work outdoorsand may be at risk of heat stress. Heat stress can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes. Heat can also increase the risk of injuries in workers as it may result in sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, and dizziness. There is also the hazard of burns from accidental contact with hot surfaces or steam.

    Workers at risk of heat stress include workers in hot environments such as construction workers, firefighters, bakery workers, farmers, and factory workers. Greater care must be taken for those who are over 65 years of age, are overweight, have heart disease, high blood pressure, or take medications that may be affected by extreme heat because these workers are more susceptible.