Heat Hazards
Workers are exposed to heat hazards in the kitchen. Temperatures can reach 105 to 110 degrees while cooking in front of hot grills. Exposure to excessive heat could lead to several problems, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and possible death.
Heat exhaustion: Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that occurs when the body becomes overheated due to excessive exposure to high temperatures and dehydration. It is often caused by prolonged physical activity in hot environments and can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition, if not treated promptly.
Heat exhaustion can lead to the following health issues:
- dizziness
- blurred vision
- nausea
- eventual collapse
Also, if not treated promptly by lowering the person's body temperature, a person suffering from heat exhaustion could suffer brain damage.
Heat Stroke: Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body overheats to a dangerous level (typically 104°F / 40°C or higher) due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and impaired heat regulation. It is the most severe form of heat-related illness and requires immediate emergency medical attention to prevent organ damage or death.
Possible Solutions
There are several things you can do to decrease the chance of heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke. Here are a few suggestions:
- Wear comfortable, breathable, and cool clothing.
- Tell your co-workers if you are not feeling well.
- Recognize and be able to treat the early symptoms of heat illness.
- Take regular breaks from the hot environment to let your body cool down.
- Drink plenty of water.
Safe Work Practices
Your employer can implement the following safe work practices:
- Keep cooking areas as cool as possible, such as:
- spot cooling fans
- reduce humidity
- evaporative cooling
- air conditioning
- general ventilation
- local exhaust ventilation
- Encourage workers to drink plenty of water.
- Gradually introduce employees to hot environments. This allows the body to build up a tolerance to high temperatures. This process usually takes about two weeks.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-5. How can employers decrease the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke for their employees?
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