Can you spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke?

Canadian summers can be very hot. They’re also typically, humid, which can exacerbate the heat and drive the mercury up even higher. But the warmth of the summer sun can go from fun to dangerous very quickly, especially for those who work outdoors or inside in un-air-conditioned environments, such as:

Barns and silos
Factories or manufacturing plants, especially those that run large, hot machinery
Un-airconditioned warehousing facilities or facilities with large loading dock doors or other access doors that cannot easily be closed
Kitchens, bakeries, or food production plants
Greenhouses

For those who work in extremely hot temperatures, the summer season is a time of heightened awareness, because working in extremely hot environments or under direct sunlight can be hazardous. Risks include heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and sunburn.

In this article, we discuss:

The difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke

First aid for heat exhaustion and sunburns

Tips for working in extremely hot temperatures

Extreme Temperatures Training

The key difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke is that heat exhaustion is accompanied by sweat

What is the Difference Between Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke?

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two different ailments. Heat exhaustion usually precedes heatstroke. Signs of heat exhaustion include:

Cool, moist skin
Sweating
Goosebumps
Feeling faint, dizzy, or fatigued
Having a weak but rapid pulse
Muscle cramps
Nausea
Headache

Heatstroke, or sunstroke, is a more serious condition. It usually results from heat exhaustion that was ignored, went unnoticed, or was left untreated. Signs of heatstroke include:

A high body temperature of 104 degrees or greater
An altered mental state, confusion
Hot, dry skin
Nausea or vomiting
Flushed skin
Rapid breathing
Increased heart rate
Headache

The key difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke is that heat exhaustion is accompanied by sweat. When heatstroke sets in, sweating ceases and the matter is a medical emergency. Administer first aid right away.

First Aid

If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion:

Move the person into the shade or inside to an airconditioned space
Have the person lay down on their back, and elevate their feet and legs slightly
Remove any heavy clothing
Provide water to drink – in the absence of water another cool, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated drink will do
Cool the person using sprays or sponges

If symptoms do not improve, consider calling a doctor for a medical assessment. Continue to monitor the person. If they continue to deteriorate, call 911. As well, call 911 immediately if any of the following occur:

Fainting
Temperature rises above 104 degrees
Person becomes confused or agitated
Person experiences a seizure
Inability to drink

Whenever in doubt, consult medical professionals.

Sunburns

Sunburn results from too much exposure to the sun’s rays without protection. They cause red skin, that is warm to the touch, painful, and sometimes swollen or even blistered. Severe sunburns are sometimes accompanied by heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

To protect yourself, wear sunscreen, a hat, and proper protective clothing.

Five Tips for Working in Extremely Hot Temperatures

Tip #1: Stay hydrated through the day! Drink cool water frequently.

Tip #2: Wear sunscreen if you work in the sun.

Tip #3: Wear light-coloured clothing, as it absorbs less heat.

Tip #4: Take cooling breaks often, and if possible, take your breaks indoors in an air-conditioned environment.

Tip #5: If you work in extreme temperatures, complete the applicable training.

Trust MidSouthWest Training and Consulting

Anyone who works in extremely hot temperatures should participate in training aimed at ensuring they understand the risks and hazards associated with the work. This training should cover the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and injury, as well as basic first aid.

Book Working in Extreme Temperatures Training NOW

To learn more about MidSouthWest Training and Consulting’s on-site, online training, and distance learning options, contact us online or call 289.309.1143. Visit us 24/7 on the web at midsouthwest.ca.

Last updated July 5, 2021