OSHA standards. These include: • Risk assessment Conducting thorough risk assessments to identify potential heat haz- ards in the workplace • Engineering controls Implementing engi- neering controls such as shade structures to reduce heat exposure • Workplace modifications Adjusting work schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day or rotating workers between climbing and groundmen tasks • Personal protective equipment (PPE) Providing appropriate PPE, including light- weight, breathable clothing, hard hats, and sunscreen • Training and education Conducting reg- ular training sessions to educate workers on recognizing the symptoms of heat- related illnesses and the importance of hydration and rest breaks • Monitoring and supervision Applying protocols for monitoring workers’ condi- tions and ensuring supervisors are trained to recognize signs of distress and respond effectively As temperatures continue to rise, protecting outdoor workers from heat-related illnesses becomes gradually critical. OSHA and Cal/ OSHA have established comprehensive reg- ulations to guide employers in developing tough heat illness protection plans. By making employee safety, implementing preventive measures, and raising a culture of awareness, companies can ensure compliance with regulatory standards while safeguarding the well-being of their workforce. Heat illness prevention isn’t just about follow- ing regulations; it’s about caring for the health and safety of those who keep our industries running. Korey Conry is a field safety supervisor and trainer at Mountain F Enterprises. A Utility Arborist through ISA, TCIA Instructor, Flagger Instructor, CPR Instructor, and OSHA authorized trainer. He teaches a five-week utility ar- borist course in California at Butte College.
Taking certain medications can also increase your risk of a heat-related illness.
syndrome or renal failure, the road to recovery will likely be longer, making it difficult for you to return to work. Risk Factors Working on trees, especially up in trees, can be physically taxing and can take its toll while in the heat. Some people are more at risk for de- veloping a heat-related illness than others. Taking certain medications can also increase your risk of a heat-related ill- ness, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. These include diuretic pills, also known as water pills, antihistamine medica- tions for allergies, and antipsychotic medicine used for neurological ill- nesses. These medications can impair the body’s natural ability to cool itself down, which can be dangerous when performing intensive physical labor in the heat.
• Lack of experience working in the heat • Not taking frequent enough breaks • Wearing very heavy, thick, or dark clothing • Age • Gender: men are more likely to suf- fer from a heat-related injury than women • History of a heart-related illness Preventing Heat-related Illness The best way to prevent heat-related illness is to get out of the heat and rest somewhere cool for a short period. Wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) can also help. And for situations where you can’t stop working, a cold compress to your skin can help. Drinking electrolyte-infused fluids can help replenish all the nutrients lost from sweat. If you’re drinking cold water, it may be tempting to guzzle it down, but it’s important to slow down and take small sips. Drinking too much water all at once just flushes out the nutrients in your body faster.
Other risk factors include:
• Poor physical fitness • Using drugs or excessive alcohol
28 | ArborTIMES Summer 2024
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