Heat stress

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People who work in hot, humid conditions may not like the idea of wearing a facial covering to decrease their risk of exposure to COVID-19. But it’s necessary.

Whenever muscle damage occurs – whether it’s the result of a work-related incident, heat exposure, overuse or other cause – rhabdomyolysis can follow. Also called “rhabdo,” the condition develops when damaged or dead muscles break down and release cell contents into the blood, according to NIOSH.

Heat-related illnesses accounted for 783 worker deaths and nearly 70,000 serious injuries in the United States from 1992 to 2016. And in 2018 alone, 3,950 workers experienced days away from work as a result of nonfatal injuries and illnesses from on-the-job heat exposure.

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are the two most dangerous heat-related illnesses, according to OSHA.

Washington – A new YouTube video from OSHA aims to inform workers of all ages about the importance of taking precautions against heat illness.

Heat stress can be deadly, and employers need to protect their employees from the dangers of hot environments. Here’s one tool to give you a better picture on how to do just that.

Longer hours and increasing climate levels are transforming work zones into dangerous heat zones. Ignoring early warning signs such as heat discomfort, sweating or thirst can lead to heat-related illness, including heat stroke and death.

If you work outside, do so safely and know your body’s limits.