Extreme Temperature Hazards
Construction workers are frequently exposed to extreme environmental conditions, whether working under the scorching sun or in freezing temperatures. Both heat and cold stress can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature, leading to dangerous—and sometimes fatal—health conditions. These risks are particularly significant in outdoor work environments where physical exertion increases susceptibility to thermal stress.
- Heat Stroke: A life-threatening condition resulting from prolonged exposure to high temperatures and strenuous physical activity. Symptoms include confusion, lack of sweating, rapid pulse, and unconsciousness. For example, roofers working during peak summer temperatures without shade or hydration are at high risk.
- Heat Exhaustion: A milder form of heat-related illness that can escalate to heat stroke. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, headache, and nausea.
- Heat Cramps: Painful muscle spasms caused by loss of salt and moisture due to heavy sweating.
- Frostbite: Damage to skin and underlying tissues caused by freezing temperatures, often affecting extremities like fingers, toes, ears, and nose. It is a common risk during winter construction work in inadequately insulated clothing.
- Hypothermia: Occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C). It can result in slurred speech, drowsiness, shallow breathing, and unconsciousness. Prolonged exposure to cold environments, especially in wet conditions, greatly increases risk.
Exposure Control Methods
To prevent or reduce the health risks associated with heat and cold stress, a combination of engineering controls, work practice controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used.
- Engineering Controls:
- Provide air-conditioned rest shelters or shaded break areas for hot environments.
- Use radiant heaters or heated enclosures for cold conditions.
- Implement ventilation or cooling fans in enclosed work areas.
- Install windbreaks or barriers to reduce cold wind exposure on job sites.
- Work Practice Controls:
- Schedule heavy labor for cooler times of day (early morning or evening).
- Use a buddy system to monitor for symptoms of heat or cold-related illness.
- Implement acclimatization protocols (job hardening) for new or returning workers reduce the risk of thermal stress injuries and illnesses.
- Encourage frequent breaks and adequate hydration during hot weather.
- Limit time spent in cold weather and rotate workers out of cold environments.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Provide insulated gloves, boots, and layered clothing for cold work environments.
- Use moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics in hot weather to prevent heat retention.
- Provide cooling vests or ice packs for use during breaks in high heat conditions.
- Ensure workers wear hats or helmets with sunshades or liners suitable for cold or hot conditions.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
9-11. What might happen if workers ignore acclimatization protocols in extreme temperatures?
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