#Heatstroke is a severe heat-related illness that occurs when the body's temperature regulation system fails due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and humidity. It's a medical emergency and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
I fully support NIOSH Malaysia initiative and recommendations on the need to address the issue more seriously.
Workers who are exposed to extreme heat or work in hot environments may be at risk. Exposure to extreme heat can result in occupational illnesses and injuries. Heat stress can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes. Heat can also increase the risk of injuries in workers as it may result in sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, and dizziness. Burns may also occur as a result of accidental contact with hot surfaces or steam.
Workers at risk of heat stress include outdoor workers and workers in hot environments such as firefighters, bakery workers, farmers, construction workers, miners, boiler room workers, factory workers, and others.
Workers at greater risk of heat stress include those who are 65 years of age or older, are overweight, have heart disease or high blood pressure, or take medications that may be affected by extreme heat.
(CDC/NIOSH US)
Prevention of heat stress in workers is important. Employers should provide training to workers so they understand what heat stress is, how it affects their health and safety, and how it can be prevented.
In Malaysia - 2 deaths among 45 heatstroke cases reported 2024, says Director General of Health Malaysia. This trend is should raise enough redflags that the issue of heatstroke must be prevented and recognized as an occupational safety and health problem.
In the construction industry, I encourage fully that clients, consultants and contractors to include heatstress and heatstroke as part of the Occupational Safety and Health and Environment Plans or part and parcel of contract requirements, Job Safety/Hazard Analysis, Risk Assessment and Method Statements.
A) ROOT CAUSES
There are several factors can contribute to heatstroke in occupational settings :
1) High Temperatures
Working in environments with high temperatures, especially in industries like construction, agriculture, and manufacturing, can increase the risk of heatstroke.
2) High Humidity
High humidity reduces the body's ability to cool itself through sweating, leading to increased risk of heat-related illnesses.
3) Physical Exertion
Strenuous physical activity without adequate breaks and hydration can lead to heatstroke, as the body generates more heat and requires more cooling.
4) Lack of Hydration
Not drinking enough fluids, particularly water, can lead to dehydration, making it harder for the body to regulate its temperature.
The impact of heatstroke can be severe and even fatal if not treated promptly. Symptoms include high body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C), altered mental state or behaviour, nausea and vomiting, flushed skin, rapid breathing, and a rapid heartbeat. Without intervention, heatstroke can lead to damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles, and it can ultimately result in death.
B) PREVENTION
To reduce the risk of heatstroke in occupational settings, employers and workers can take several preventive measures :
1) Provide Adequate Training
Educate workers about the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke, and train them on preventive measures.
2) Modify Work Practices
Schedule strenuous tasks for cooler times of the day, if possible, and provide frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
3) Hydration
Encourage workers to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if they don't feel thirsty, and provide easy access to water sources.
4) Provide Shade and Ventilation
Ensure that workers have access to shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces where they can take breaks to cool down.
5) Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Lightweight, breathable clothing can help workers stay cool, and wearing hats with wide brims can provide protection from the sun.
6) Monitor Workers
Supervisors should regularly monitor workers for signs of heat-related illnesses and encourage them to take breaks as needed.
7) Emergency Response Plan
Have a plan in place for responding to heat-related emergencies, including heatstroke, and ensure that all workers know what to do in case of an emergency.
8) Job Safety Analysis
A job safety analysis (JSA) is a great hazard assessment that can be beneficial to mitigating heat stress. Heat conditions can change rapidly and management commitment to adjusting heat stress controls is critical to prevent heat illness. An individual at the job site should be responsible for monitoring conditions and implementing the employer's heat plan throughout the workday. This individual can be anyone with the proper training, which includes knowing how to
- identify and control heat hazards;
- recognize early symptoms of heat stress;
- administer first aid for heat-related illnesses; and
- activate emergency medical services quickly when needed.
(JSABuilder)
By implementing these measures, employers can help reduce the risk of heatstroke and create safer working environments for their employees.
INITIATIVE AT GLOBAL SCALE
Control of Heatstress and Heatstrokes at work are also related generically to Sustainable Development Goals and for companies practicing proper control, assessment, having the necessary documentation should be given incentives. tax reliefs or any other benefits. These perks should also be extended should the control covers the surroundings such as the community as part of their social responsibility program.
