Work that must done in elevated temperatures keeps the workforce at risk for heat-related illnesses: heat rash, cramps, exhaustion and stroke. According to the United States Dept. of Labor’s Occupational Health and Safety Association (OSHA), every year, thousands of workers become ill from heat exposure, and some even die a preventable death that could be avoided with water, rest, and shade. From 2008 through2012, there were 17 heat-related fatalities in Texas and 98 fatalities nation-wide. Industries are recognizing this rising problem and installing required “Cool Down Trailers" during turnaround/pit stop and project work activity.

Heat-Related Illnesses

1. Heat Exhaustion
   
   Heat Exhaustion occurs when your body gets too hot. Victims may feel weak,
   experience dizziness, have a headache, or feel their heart racing. Drinking
   alcohol can make heat exhaustion worse. Heat exhaustion can progress to
   sunstroke.
2. Heatstroke
   
   Heatstroke happens when the body gets too hot and can occur after heat
   exhaustion. Heatstroke is much more serious than heat exhaustion and can kill victims.
   Most people with heatstroke have a fever, may seem confused, and can even have
   a seizure or go into a coma. Symptoms include

• Skin that feels hot and dry, but not sweaty,
• Confusion,
• Vomiting, and
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing.

Costs of Heat Illness $-$$$$

• Work stoppage-$$$
• Emergency service response-$
• Safety stand down-$
• Management, Supervision, & Safety Investigations i.e. Root Cause Analysis,etc-$$
• Implementing action items from investigation findings-$$
• Start up delays-$$$$

What $$$ can’t replace

• Personal injuries
• Recovery time
• Safety record
• Reputation
• Elevated attention to job performance