Protecting Workers from Heat Stress and Heat Stroke:
The Role of Heat Stress Monitoring Bands
Heat stress and heat stroke are serious workplace risks, especially in warmer climates. In 2015, exposure to extreme heat caused 37 work-related fatalities and 2,830 nonfatal injuries, with 33 of the 37 deaths occurring during the summer months of June to September, highlighting the increased danger in hot weather.
Understanding Heat Stress and Heat Stroke
When the heat index rises above 90°F (32°C), the risk of heat stress and stroke increases dramatically. Heat stroke occurs when the body loses its ability to regulate temperature, leading to dangerously high body heat.
Common Symptoms of Heat Stress and Stroke:
Throbbing headache
Dizziness or fainting
Lack of sweating
Red, hot, dry skin
Muscle cramps or weakness
Nausea and vomiting
Rapid heart rate or breathing
Confusion or disorientation
Seizures
Emergency Response:
Move to shade
Loosen or remove tight clothing
Cool the body with cool water or ice packs
Keep the person on their side if vomiting occurs
Preventing Heat Illnesses: OSHA recommends staying hydrated, wearing breathable clothing, taking breaks, and using personal cooling solutions to prevent heat-related injuries.
Heat Stress Monitoring Band: A Practical Solution
To address heat stress, the Heat Stress Monitoring Band offers a simple solution. This device monitors core body temperature, and if it exceeds 37.8°C (100°F), the band sends an alert, warning workers of the risk of heat stroke. The band does not display real-time data but provides an automatic alarm when temperature thresholds are reached, allowing workers and supervisors to take action before the situation becomes critical.
How It Works:
Core Temperature Monitoring: The band tracks the worker’s core body temperature and alerts when it exceeds 37.8°C.
Automatic Alerts: If the temperature is too high, an alarm is triggered, prompting immediate action.
No Data Display: The band alerts without requiring workers to check data, simplifying use.
Easy to Wear: Lightweight and comfortable, it’s ideal for workers in high-heat environments, like construction, mining, and agriculture.
Benefits:
Early Warning: Alerts workers before symptoms become critical, enabling preventive measures.
Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of heat stroke and protects worker health.
Simple and Effective: Easy to use with no need to monitor data, providing peace of mind.
Versatile: Suitable for a variety of high-heat work environments.
Conclusion
With heat stress and heat stroke posing serious risks, the Heat Stress Monitoring Band offers an effective way to keep workers safe. By providing early warnings and protecting against heat-related illnesses, the band helps ensure worker safety in extreme conditions. Combining this with other preventive measures like hydration and rest periods, the Heat Stress Monitoring Band contributes to a safer work environment.
For more information or to start a trial, contact our Solution Specialists to get started today.