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6.3 Heat Stress <br /> Heat related illnesses are some of the potential hazards faced by work crews. The protective <br /> equipment required for handling hazardous substances defeats the body's natural cooling <br /> mechanisms. If not properly monitored, body heat can be escalated to dangerous levels. The <br /> three primary heat related illnesses of concern are: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. <br /> While the first two conditions may be painful or uncomfortable, the third illness, heat stroke, is <br /> immediately life threatening. <br /> Symptoms <br /> Heat Cramps: Abdominal muscle tightness/cramping. <br /> Treatment: Move employee from contaminated work area, remove as many clothing <br /> items as possible, give electrolyte replenishing drink. <br /> Heat Exhaustion: Excessive perspiration; flushed skin tone; cool clammy or moist skin; <br /> possible red rash; dizziness or nausea. <br /> Treatment: Move to cool area outside the contaminated areas; supply electrolyte <br /> replenishing fluids; restrict activity. <br /> Heat Stroke: Dry hot skin, pale skin tone, no perspiration, possible coma, strong rapid <br /> pulse. <br /> Treatment: Move patient to non-contaminated area; reduce body temperatures by <br /> wetting clothes or covering with wet sheets. Get medical attention <br /> immediately. <br /> Heat Stress Prevention <br /> Employees should take increased rest periods, drink appropriate beverages; gatorade or other <br /> electrolyte replenishes, water or fruit juice. NO SODAS. Further, employees should follow the <br /> work rest regimen established by ACGIH. (See Heat Stress Monitoring). <br /> 5 <br />