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HEAT STRAIN and the effects of heat stress are the subject of many news reports and even some national headlines (e.g., Macon Telegraph, USA Today). In 2002, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 40 fatalities resulting from exposure to environmental heat. Forty percent of those deaths occurred in the construction industry, 25 percent in agriculture forestry and mining, 10 percent in transportation and public utilities, and 7.5 percent in manufacturing. A BLS report with summary statistics shows double-digit fatalities from exposure to environmental heat in each year from 1992 to 2001: 1992 = 12; 1993 = 22; 1994 = 28; 1995 = 35; 1996 = 18; 1997 = 22; 1998 = 34; 1999 = 35; 2000 = 21; and 2001 = 24. Based on what is known about heat strain and illness as a result of heat stress, one can argue that all of these reported cases were preventable.
In 29 CFR 1910.132, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), OSHA requires employers to assess workplace hazards that require use of PPE. If hazards are present, employers must select PPE that will protect employees. Paragraph (c) requires that the PPE be of safe design and construction for the work to be performed. Paragraph (f)(1)(iv) requires training to address the PPE's limitations. Certain types of PPE are offered as protection when heat stress is an identified hazard, while use of certain types of PPE may increase the potential for heat strain. Some PPE selected as a control may also present a limitation. For example, some early models of cooling vests were heavy and may have contributed to cardiovascular strain.
Several tools are available to help manage and prevent heat strain. The first part of this article focuses on the identification of readily available tools that are inexpensive, easy to understand and easy to use. The second part of the article identifies PPE available to help prevent heat strain; PPE that meets the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.132 Paragraph (c); and PPE that can complicate management of heat-related conditions [Paragraph (f) limitations].
Proactive Management
Three broad areas should be considered when establishing a proactive management program:
1) training and (early) recognition;
2) management of personal factors;
3) understanding and using evaluation tools (including measurement instruments).
Recognition & Training
Early recognition...