Heatstroke at work is a topic that has unfortunately become very relevant in recent times. This is especially true following the recent news regarding the death of a farmworker due to this cause. The sharp rise in temperatures in certain areas of Spain during the summer months significantly increases the risk of harm caused by exposure to extreme ambient temperatures.
Many sectors are affected by this risk, and as is well known, construction is one of them. In this article, we will discuss how to prevent heatstroke at work and other risks derived from exposure to high temperatures during the workday on-site.
Risk of heatstroke
High temperatures in the workplace are related to several preventive disciplines. The main area addressing the consequences of such exposure is Industrial Hygiene. It studies the risks derived from the work environment. The thermal environment or thermo-hygrometric conditions in which work is performed can affect the health and safety of a worker.
The risk of heatstroke at work stems from exposure to extreme ambient temperatures. Damage caused by high temperatures and extreme heat can be diverse and appear suddenly. Among them, the worst is heatstroke, which can lead to the death of the affected person. Furthermore, it must be taken into account that individuals with other underlying pathologies may suffer heatstroke.
Causes and symptoms of heatstroke at work
As previously mentioned, very hot environments and humidity cause heatstroke at work. However, intense physical exertion in environments that are not extreme, but moderately hot, can also trigger heatstroke. Typically, both situations occur in the construction sector.
Certain common construction tasks, such as concrete curing, asphalt spreading, etc., generate exposure to ambient heat and humidity that combine with the environmental conditions derived from the climate itself, as already mentioned. This causes a notable increase in the risk level of heatstroke on-site.
Common symptoms of heatstroke at work include very high body temperature, hot and dry skin, cessation or reduction of sweating, seizures, delirium, mental confusion, etc.
Other risks derived from high temperatures
We have already noted that extreme temperatures cause numerous types of harm beyond heatstroke. Thus, we must not forget that such conditions are capable of causing other pathological effects such as rashes, dehydration, cramps, exhaustion, or syncope. Likewise, situations of acute thermal stress can increase the level of psychosocial risk, as they can lead to loss of emotional control, outbursts of anger, or prolonged crying.
Even when conditions are not extreme—that is, even if it is not excessively hot—these high temperatures influence the development and quality of work and, therefore, labor performance. Within the field of ergonomics, as we saw in our article on ergonomics in construction, thermo-hygrometric discomfort and inadequate environmental conditions have a serious influence. These are caused by… risk situations due to heat exposure.
Measures to prevent heatstroke in construction
To prevent heatstroke and other risks derived from high temperatures, all actions that help maintain body temperature against extra heat intake will be fundamental. Facilitating natural thermoregulation mechanisms, as well as certain behaviors and guidelines, will support this objective.
One of these physiological thermoregulation mechanisms is sweating, as the evaporation of sweat produces significant heat loss. For this reason, it is very important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
The behavioral measures that can assist thermoregulation involve the adaptation of workstations. To this end, guidelines such as periodic breaks or a reduction in activity should be included. Efforts should also be made to locate tasks in cool, ventilated areas. If outdoor work is necessary, it is advisable to start early and avoid the central hours of the day or the most intense heat. The type and amount of clothing must be appropriate. In this regard, it is necessary to use suitable personal protective equipment, hats, breathable clothing, etc.
In the event of heatstroke at work, it is necessary to provide immediate medical assistance, as we have mentioned it can lead to death. The person should be doused with cold liquids and fanned to promote evaporation and cooling.
For any advice regarding health and safety in construction or matters related to health and safety coordination, please do not hesitate to contact us. GespreObra also offers expert witness services, the preparation of studies and health and safety plans, and consultancy in occupational risk prevention for the construction, industry, and mining sectors.
