R. Baker Workers Trained In Heat Related Illness

With summer only just begun, there are likely many hot days ahead. In construction, demolition, and rigging, heat-related illness is a very real threat if the proper steps are not taken to prevent it. 

Symptoms of heat-related illnesses range from the relatively mild, including heat rash, heat cramps, and fainting, to more serious conditions like heat exhaustion and life-threatening heat stroke. People who work outdoors, in hot environments, and in unconditioned spaces (like those who typically work in rigging and demolition) are particularly susceptible to these conditions. R. Baker & Son workers are trained in preventing heat-related illnesses and how to recognize and treat them when they occur. 

Prevention

When extremely hot weather is forecast and work can’t be rescheduled, plan to perform the most demanding work during the coolest part of the day when possible. Hydrate before beginning work and frequently throughout the day – drink at least 16 oz. of cool water or sports drink per hour. 

Wear breathable, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Nowadays, many clothing manufacturers offer clothing in high-tech fabrics designed to keep you cooler and drier in hot weather. Bring a change of clothing in case it becomes saturated with sweat; wet clothing hinders sweat evaporation, which is necessary to dissipate excessive heat. 

Take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas whenever possible. Take extra care when wearing PPE, which is part of the typical construction, rigging and demolition worker’s everyday “uniform”, as it can further increase the risk of heat illness. 

Recognizing Serious Heat-Related Illness

Heat Exhaustion – 

Symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, lack of coordination, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating, elevated body temperature, and decreased urine output. 

What to do: If you or a coworker show signs of heat exhaustion, immediately move to a cooler area. Drink water or sports drinks, remove unnecessary clothing including shoes and socks, and apply cool water or cold compresses to the head, neck and face. If the worker is unable to drink, or if symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes, seek medical attention.

Heat Stroke – 

Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulating system fails and body temperature rises to a critical level. 

Symptoms: confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, very high body temperature, and hot dry skin or profuse sweating.

What to do: CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY. While you wait for help, move the person to a cool or shaded area and remove outer clothing including shoes and socks. Apply cold packs or wet cloths all over the body, or soak the clothing with cold water, and circulate the air, if possible, to speed cooling. 

About R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services

R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services, a  Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOB)  in business since 1935, is a premier specialized contractor operating in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, with over one hundred employees and an exemplary safety record (we have been directly involved in four sites that received VPP OSHA Safety Awards). R. Baker & Son is financially strong, with bonding capabilities over $10 million. Capabilities include industrial and commercial demolition, rigging, machinery- and plant-moving, dismantling, decommissioning, plant and equipment relocation, interior demolition, selective demolition, warehousing, wrecking and razing, millwright, plant reconfigurations, heavy rigging, salvage, environmental services, remediation, decontamination, abatement, and investment and asset recovery.

R. Baker & Son - All Industrial Services
190 Boundary Road
Marlboro, NJ 07746
732-222-3553