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II . PHYSICAL HAZAI,-,n ; <br /> HEAT STRESS : <br /> The human body stubbornly defends its constant core temperature of <br /> 98 . 6°F (37°C) . To maintain this constant temperature, heat loss must <br /> equal heat gain. If heat loss exceeds heat gain, the body temperature <br /> will fall; conversely, if heat production exceeds heat loss, the <br /> temperature will rise. In a heat related emergency the body's mechanism <br /> for temperature regulation are overwhelmed. The body can no longer <br /> regulate core temperature and the core temperature begins to rise. As <br /> this rise occurs, the body will begin to show the signs and symptoms of <br /> heat related emergencies. The sequence of illness may start with Heat <br /> Cramps and progress into a more severe case or may go straight to Heat <br /> Stroke. The degree of illness will vary from person to person, depending <br /> on the nature of the exposure, physical conditioning and inherited <br /> traits. <br /> Prevention: <br /> A. General <br /> 1. Maintain good physical conditioning and control your <br /> blood pressure (avoid weight gain, smoking, etc. ) . <br /> 2. Eat regularly and properly. Increase salt intake through <br /> food consumption during the hot season or hot spells and <br /> avoid the use of salt tablets. Consult a physician if <br /> you are on a salt restrictive diet. <br /> 3. Regulate alcohol intake if you are going to be working <br /> in hot environments, either from ambient conditions or <br /> through the wearing of Chemical Protective Clothing. <br /> 4. Obtain basic First Aid and CPR training. <br /> 5. Participate in a yearly medical monitoring program. If <br /> you are on medication or have a chronic medical history, <br /> consult a physician prior to working in a hot environment. <br /> B. On Site/Scene <br /> 1. If you anticipate fieldwork, get acclimated and <br /> conditioned prior to working in high temperatures. This <br /> process usually takes from 4 - 7 days. <br /> 2. Plan site work for cooler periods in the day, early <br /> morning or evening. <br /> 3. Take frequent short breaks. Open or remove protective <br /> clothing while on break. <br /> 4. The Site Safety Plan shall include a telephone number <br /> for the local hospital, ambulance and rescue squad. <br /> Site Safety S Health Plan R17ev./1.0 <br /> October 20, 1997 <br />