The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in a Tweet, outlined the steps to prevent health illness at work. MoPH mentioned that both outdoor and indoor heat exposure can be dangerous.
As per MoPH, the following are:
The ways to protect yourself and others
Ease Into Work
- New and returning workers need to build a tolerance to heat (acclimatize) and take frequent breaks.
- Follow the 20% Rule. On the first day, work no more than 20% of the shift's duration at full intensity in the heat. Increase the duration of time at full intensity by no more than 20% a day until workers are used to working in the heat.
Drink Cool Water
- Drink cool water even if you are not thirsty-at least cup every 20 minutes.
Take Rest Breaks
- Take enough time to recover from heat given the temperature, humidity, and conditions.
Find Shade or a Cool Area
- Take breaks in a designated shady or cool location.
Dress for the Heat
- Wear a hat and light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing if possible.
Watch Out for Each Other
- Monitor yourself and others for signs of heat illness.
If Wearing a Face Covering
- Change your face covering if it gets wet or soiled. Verbally check on others frequently.
First aid for heat illness
The following are signs of a medical emergency:
- Abnormal thinking or behavior
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Call 999 immediately.
- Cool the worker right away with water or ice.
- Stay with the worker until help arrives.
Watch for any other signs of heat illness and act quickly. When in doubt, call 999.
If a worker experiences:
- Headache or nausea
- Weakness or dizziness
- Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin
- Elevated body temperature
- Thirst
- Decreased urine output
Take these actions:
- Give water to drink.
- Move to a cooler area.
- Cool with water, ice, or a fan.
- Seek medical care if needed.
- Remove unnecessary clothing.
Source: MoPH
Cover image source: Shutterstock
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