Outdoor workers are at risk from injuries in temperatures like those seen across southern B.C. this month.

Last year, says they accepted 16 such claims, which were caused by heat exhaustion and heat stroke. And the employees with the highest number of heat stress-related claims were those who spend much of their time outdoors or on the road. They are truck and bus drivers, lifeguards, recreation sport and fitness leaders, and even motion-picture production assistants.

WorkSafeBC is reminding both employees and employers to be aware of the risks, and offers suggestions.

香蕉视频直播淥utdoor workers face many risks when the weather is hot,香蕉视频直播� says Dan Strand, WorkSafeBC prevention field services director. 香蕉视频直播淏y law, employers are required to know if their workers are at risk by performing a heat-stress assessment and implementing a mitigation plan, when necessary.香蕉视频直播�

Heat stress occurs when your internal temperature increases faster than the body can cool itself.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include excess sweating, dizziness, fainting and muscle cramps. Symptoms of heat stroke include cessation of sweating, an increased breathing rate, confusion, seizures and even cardiac arrest.

Here香蕉视频直播檚 what employers can do to lessen the risks:

香蕉视频直播� Monitor heat conditions and require workers not to work alone

香蕉视频直播� Ensure there is adequate first-aid coverage and emergency procedures are in place

香蕉视频直播� Make physical modifications to facilities, equipment, processes to reduce exposure

香蕉视频直播� Change work practices and policies to limit the risk

香蕉视频直播� Determine appropriate work-rest cycles; when a worker feels ill it may be too late

香蕉视频直播� Rotate work activities or use additional workers to reduce exposure

香蕉视频直播� Establish cooling areas with shade and water

There are things employees can do to help reduce their risks of injury as well:

香蕉视频直播� Drink plenty of water (one glass every 20 minutes)

香蕉视频直播� Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabric such as cotton

香蕉视频直播� Take rest breaks in a cool, well-ventilated area

香蕉视频直播� Do the hardest physical work during the coolest parts of the day, before 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m.

香蕉视频直播� Know your personal risk factors such as medications and any pre-existing conditions

香蕉视频直播� Check the signs and symptoms for yourself and co-workers

香蕉视频直播� Learn more about heat stress at and watch videos on their .

jpeters@theprogress.com
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