Summer may have just arrived, but it’s felt like summer for a good portion of the United States for some time now and service industry professionals, like those in the pest management industry, are feeling the heat.
The trusted Farmer’s Almanac call for a warm, hot, and muggy summer for most of the country and that means technicians need to be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses and know how to reduce their exposure.
Heat Related Illnesses
Problems develop when the body’s cooling mechanisms do not work properly and the risk from heat-related illness increases. Heat rash occurs when sweat ducts become clogged and heat cramps are painful muscle spasms caused by the loss of electrolytes from heavy sweating. If you develop these conditions, immediately get out of the heat so you can rest.
When the body loses too much water and salt, heat exhaustion sets in. Signs include weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, heavy sweating, and clammy skin. A heatstroke victim will present with a rapid pulse, hot red skin, and has stopped sweating due to lack of body fluids. The victim may show mental confusion, a decrease in alertness, and blurred judgment.
Awareness is vital to prevent heat-related illnesses as is educating employees on preventative measures, symptoms, and treatments.
How to Stay Safe in the Heat
Technicians working in the heat take can protect themselves from the dangers of hot weather and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses by following these tips.
Hydration
Drink Plenty of Water
Electrolyte Replacement
Clothing
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Use Sunscreen
Work Practices
Pace Yourself
Cooling Techniques
Use Cooling Aids
Access to Shade
Monitoring and First Aid
Recognize Heat-Related Illnesses
Follow Employer Policies
PestSure – Your Partner in Safety
Founded in 1980, PestSure is the only insurance and risk management provider that is 100 percent dedicated to the pest management industry. It offers industry professionals a full suite of insurance, risk management, and safety training and education offerings.
PestSure provides insurance, safety and risk management consulting to pest management companies representing $2 billion in revenue, $750 million in payroll and more than 16,500 service vehicles. The program is administered by Alliant Insurance Services.
Call 888.984.3813 or visit our contact page for more information
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