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HEAT STRESS <br />Heat stress is the result of the total heat load imposed on the body by way of <br />environmental and physical work factors. Heat stress disorders result when the body can <br />no longer maintain a balance between the heat gained by work and the heat lost through <br />the body's cooling systems (blood circulation and sweating). <br />FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO HEAT STRESS <br />• Environmental — humidity, air movement, radiant heat (sun, blacktop road) <br />• Physical — metabolic heat and clothing. <br />• Intensity of work performed. <br />• Physical fitness — fatigue. <br />• Inadequate acclimatization. <br />• Cardiac and respiratory conditions. <br />• Effects of alcohol and caffeine consumption. <br />HEAT STRESS DISORDERS <br />Heat Fainting — blood circulation cannot meet the increased demands for cooling — <br />result is dizziness and fainting. <br />Treatment — Move victim to cooler area, lie down, loosen clothing, elevate feet 8 to 12 <br />inches. <br />Heat Exhaustion — dehydration leads to weakness, headache, nausea and collapse. <br />Clammy, moist skin, profuse sweating, normal body temperature. <br />Treatment - Move victim to cooler area, lie down, loosen clothing. Administer fluids <br />gradually by mouth, place a cool cloth on the back of the neck and wrists. Get medical <br />aid if severe. <br />Heat Stroke — breakdown of body's cooling mechanism — severe headache, high body <br />temperature, dry hot skin, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea and seizure. <br />Treatment — get immediate medical attention, wet the individual immediately, move to <br />shaded cool location, provide fluids if conscious and capable of sipping. <br />Note — heat stroke may be fatal. Heat stress disorders may progress if not treated. <br />PREVENTION <br />Provide shade, drink water/electrolytes, work at proper pace and take rest periods <br />(remove PPE during break). Recognize symptoms and take appropriate action. <br />