Outdoor workers are at risk from injuries in temperatures like those seen across southern B.C. this month.

Last year, says they accepted 16 such claims, which were caused by heat exhaustion and heat stroke. And the employees with the highest number of heat stress-related claims were those who spend much of their time outdoors or on the road. They are truck and bus drivers, lifeguards, recreation sport and fitness leaders, and even motion-picture production assistants.

WorkSafeBC is reminding both employees and employers to be aware of the risks, and offers suggestions.

91裸聊视频淥utdoor workers face many risks when the weather is hot,91裸聊视频� says Dan Strand, WorkSafeBC prevention field services director. 91裸聊视频淏y law, employers are required to know if their workers are at risk by performing a heat-stress assessment and implementing a mitigation plan, when necessary.91裸聊视频�

Heat stress occurs when your internal temperature increases faster than the body can cool itself.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include excess sweating, dizziness, fainting and muscle cramps. Symptoms of heat stroke include cessation of sweating, an increased breathing rate, confusion, seizures and even cardiac arrest.

Here91裸聊视频檚 what employers can do to lessen the risks:

91裸聊视频� Monitor heat conditions and require workers not to work alone

91裸聊视频� Ensure there is adequate first-aid coverage and emergency procedures are in place

91裸聊视频� Make physical modifications to facilities, equipment, processes to reduce exposure

91裸聊视频� Change work practices and policies to limit the risk

91裸聊视频� Determine appropriate work-rest cycles; when a worker feels ill it may be too late

91裸聊视频� Rotate work activities or use additional workers to reduce exposure

91裸聊视频� Establish cooling areas with shade and water

There are things employees can do to help reduce their risks of injury as well:

91裸聊视频� Drink plenty of water (one glass every 20 minutes)

91裸聊视频� Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabric such as cotton

91裸聊视频� Take rest breaks in a cool, well-ventilated area

91裸聊视频� Do the hardest physical work during the coolest parts of the day, before 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m.

91裸聊视频� Know your personal risk factors such as medications and any pre-existing conditions

91裸聊视频� Check the signs and symptoms for yourself and co-workers

91裸聊视频� Learn more about heat stress at and watch videos on their .

jpeters@theprogress.com
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