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Heat Stroke (a.k.a. "Sunstroke") Heat stroke is a much more serious condition than heat exhaustion. The temperature of the body can rise to such a point that the victim's brain cells will start to die. The EMS system must be notified immediately upon determination that heat stroke has or is occurring. Symptoms of heatstroke are dry, hot skin, deep breaths followed by shallow breathing, dilated (large)pupils, loss of consciousness, and convulsions or twitching of the muscles. Care for the patient includes cooling the body as quickly as possible, in any manner possible. Removing the clothing and placing wetted towels or sheets over the patient will help cool the body down. If available, ice packs can be placed in strategic locations on the body, such as under the armpits, on the ankles, or resting on the neck,in order to speed the cooling. Remember that the EMS system must be alerted immediately upon the determination that heat stroke is occurring or has occurred. Replacement of the electrolytes lost during sweating is very important. Copious amounts of liquids must be consumed to replace these and balance out the blood. Quickick, Squincher, or Gatoraide are three examples of beverages that will allow the electrolyte balance to be restored. Many contractors will have drinks of this type available for their personnel, and the employees performing the work should be encouraged to drink as often as possible,even when they are not thirsty. Make sure that the proper drinks are specified. The choice of on-the-job clothing is very important. Cotton is a very good choice for hot summer weather. When working in Personal Protective Equipment such as Tyvek suits, it is essential to strip down as far as possible. Careful monitoring of the employees engaged in demanding work during hot, humid days is a must to guard against the dangers of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,but as an employee of AllWest, you need to protect yourself first from the dangers of overheating in the field. Know the warning signs and first aid necessary to prevent heat stroke and heat exhaustion. X. MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE CONTRACTOR and subcontractors engaged in project activities must be participants in a medical surveillance program and must be cleared by the examining physician(s) to wear respiratory protection devices and protective clothing for working with hazardous materials. The applicable requirements under 29 CFR 1910.120 of the Federal Administrative Code will also be observed. XI. SAFETY AND ORIENTATION MEETING 6