Heat as a Risk Factor 01082024 (1) (1).pdf

Heat as a Physical Risk Factor Dr Blanche Andrews 01 August 2024 Welcome and Outline Introduction to Occupational Heat Exposure Physiological Responses to Heat Risk Factors in Occupational Settings Heat-Related Health Effects Prevention Strategies...

Heat as a Physical Risk Factor Dr Blanche Andrews 01 August 2024 Welcome and Outline Introduction to Occupational Heat Exposure Physiological Responses to Heat Risk Factors in Occupational Settings Heat-Related Health Effects Prevention Strategies Monitoring and Assessing Heat Stress Legislation Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe What is Occupational Heat Exposure? Definition: Heat stress that Examples: Construction, Explanation: Occurs when the workers experience in various agriculture, manufacturing. body is unable to maintain a industries. normal temperature due to excessive heat. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Why is this Important? Heat-related illnesses can lead to serious health complications and fatalities. Statistics: Thousands of workers affected each year Range of Illnesses: acute and chronic Early recognition of heat- related illnesses Important for protecting worker health and safety. Prevention of complications through prompt treatment Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Understanding the Risks https://www.ilo.org/publications/heat-work-implications-safety-and-health Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Understanding the Risks https://www.ilo.org/publications/heat-work-implications-safety-and-health Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Understanding the Risks https://www.ilo.org/publications/heat-work-implications-safety-and-health Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Understanding the Risks https://www.ilo.org/publications/heat-work-implications-safety-and-health Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Understanding the Risks https://www.ilo.org/publications/heat-work-implications-safety-and-health Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Understanding the Risks https://www.ilo.org/publications/heat-work-implications-safety-and-health Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Physiological Responses to Heat Understanding How the Body Responds to Heat Stress Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Introduction https://www.researchgate.net/figure/The-balance-of-human-body-temperature-towards-the-environment-11_fig4_321349776 Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat Exchange Mechanisms Radiation Radiation is the transfer of heat energy through space by electromagnetic radiation A source emanates heat energy into the environment without any contact between the heat source and the heated object. Electromagnetic heat waves emitted that are absorbed or reflected A heat transfer occurs between the human body and elements around it with a different temperature. Heat gain example- body heats itself by absorbing rays of sunshine Heat loss example- the body emits heat waves to a cooler environment. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Conduction Conduction is the transfer of heat between two surfaces that are in direct contact. The heat flows from the warmer object to the cooler one until they are both at the same temperature Heat gain- holding a hot cup of tea to warm your hands. Heat loss- when sitting on a metal chair, the heat from your body would transfer to the cold metal chair. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Convection Convection is the process of heat exchange through the movement of air or water molecules across the skin Heat gain example- sitting in front of a fan heater Heat loss example- scuba diving Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Evaporation Evaporation is the loss of heat linked to the secretion of water by the body. The physical reaction of a liquid turning into a gas with the help of heat energy. Respiration Perspiration- moisture present on the skin (eg sweat) evaporates, using heat from the body No heat gain via evaporation Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat: Physiological Thermoregulation Sweating One of the primary ways the body regulates temperature is through sweating. When the body's temperature rises, the sweat glands release moisture onto the skin's surface. As this moisture evaporates, it helps to cool the body down. However, sweating can also lead to fluid and electrolyte loss, which can contribute to dehydration if not properly replenished. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Sweat Glands Apocrine Open into the hair follicle, leading to the surface of the skin Develop in areas with many hair follicles Eccrine Opens directly onto the skin's surface Occur over most of the body Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Blood Vessel Vasodilation Vasodilation is the widening of blood vessels caused by the relaxation of the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls. When the body is exposed to heat, arterioles that run through the dermis dilate, allowing more blood to flow to the skin. This helps to transfer heat from the body's core to the skin's surface, where it can be released into the environment. Heat is lost through radiation, convection, conduction, or by evaporation of heat-warmed sweat. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Impact of Vasodilation on Cardiac Function Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) Cardiac Output (CO) MAP=CO×TPR CO=HR×SV Where: Where: MAP = Mean Arterial Pressure CO = Cardiac Output CO = Cardiac Output HR = Heart Rate TPR = Total Peripheral Resistance SV = Stroke Volume Vasodilation→ blood vessels widen→ To maintain MAP and compensate for ↓ TPR → MAP ↓ ↓ TPR → CO ↑ by ↑ HR ≈ MAP = ↑ CO × ↓TPR Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Impact of Vasodilation on Cardiac Function Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Metabolic Adjustments The body makes At the cellular level, metabolic adjustments heat production is a to cope with heat function of metabolism. stress. Basal metabolism It decreases its Muscle activity, by metabolic rate to shivering and muscle reduce heat production contractions Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Thermal Heat Equation M−W=E+R+C+K Where: M = Metabolic heat production W = Work performed E = Heat loss through evaporation R = Heat loss through radiation C = Heat loss through convection K = Heat loss through conduction Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Effects of Heat Stress https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2821%2901208-3/fulltext Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Factors Increasing Susceptibility https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2821%2901208-3/fulltext Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Factors Increasing Susceptibility https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2821%2901208-3/fulltext Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Factors Increasing Susceptibility https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2821%2901208-3/fulltext Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Risk Factors in Occupational Settings Understanding the Contributors to Heat Stress Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Introduction Environmental Workplace Individual Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Environmental Conditions 1. Temperature 2. Don’t forget about…humidity! When humidity is high, the air is saturated with moisture Harder for sweat to evaporate Impairs the body’s ability to cool itself Higher risk of heat-related illnesses Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Workplace The intensity of physical labour and duration of exposure are important workplace factors Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Intensity Work that involves heavy lifting, prolonged standing, or repetitive motions can increase the body’s heat production, leading to a higher risk of heat stress Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Duration of Exposure Workers who are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods without adequate rest breaks or hydration are at a significantly higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses. However, even short bursts of intense activity in hot conditions can be dangerous, especially for those who are not acclimatized to the heat. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Workplace- Personal Protective Equipment Workers should be aware that the use of certain personal protective equipment can increase the risk of heat-related illness Certain types of respirators Impermeable clothing Head coverings Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Workplace Culture and Training Employers prioritise heat safety Adequate training in recognising the signs of heat-related illnesses A culture that encourages open communication about heat stress can empower workers to speak up when they feel unwell and take proactive measures to protect themselves. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe  Individual Factors Influence heat tolerance and susceptibility to heat stress Personal characteristics Age Fitness Level Gender Substance Use BMI Pre-existing health conditions Cardiovascular Respiratory Diabetes Genitourinary Conditions Prescription Medication (See slides 27-29) Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Summary Environmental Temperature Humidity Workplace Intensity & Duration Culture Individual Personal Characteristics Pre-existing medical conditions Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat-Related Health Effects Recognizing and Responding to Heat-Related Conditions Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Introduction Acute Heat-related illness Heat cramps Heat exhaustion Heat stroke (heat rash) (heat syncope) Acute renal injury (slide 26) Cardiovascular strain (slide 26) Long-term effects Chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt) Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat Rash Also known as miliaria Caused by obstruction of eccrine sweat glands Various types including Miliaria crystallina: this is the most common and mild form and involves the superficial stratum corneum. It typically develops on the face and trunk as small, clear vesicles. Miliaria rubra: this involves the deeper epidermis. It presents as small, non-follicular erythematous macules and papules topped by a punctate vesicle, usually on the neck and upper trunk. These may be pruritic or feel like a burn. The onset is typically days to weeks after heat exposure and can progress to a chronic, pustular state known as miliaria pustulosa. Miliaria profunda: this more severe form involves the deeper, dermal- epidermal junction. It presents as larger white vesicles that are more commonly asymptomatic due to their location deeper in the dermis. Generally not serious May require symptomatic treatment https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553117/ Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat Cramps Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms in the legs, arms, or abdomen due to excessive sweating and electrolyte loss. Not life-threatening Can be debilitating. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat Syncope Temporary, self-limited dizziness, 1. Dehydration weakness, or loss of consciousness during prolonged standing or positional changes in a hot environment, including physical activity. 2. Pooling of blood in the venous system Underlying mechanism postulated as being due to a combination of 3. Decreased cardiac filling This combination leads to decreased cerebral blood flow 4. Low blood pressure https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553117/ Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses a significant amount of water and salt through sweating. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, elevated body temperature and decreased urine output While not immediately life- threatening, it can progress to more severe conditions if not addressed promptly. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat Stroke Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature The body’s temperature rises rapidly, The sweating mechanism fails, The body is unable to cool down. Risk of permanent disability or death Medical emergency Symptoms of heat stroke include: Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech Loss of consciousness (coma) Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating Seizures Very high body temperature Fatal if treatment delayed Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Heat Exhaustion vs Heat Stroke Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt) Diagnosis of exclusion for CKD Patient fulfils the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) CKD criteria without evidence of a known cause such as diabetes or hypertension Three main recognised occupational risk factors for CKDnt Heat stress Exposure to pesticides Exposure to metals Can have a delayed presentation after cessation of exposure High index of suspicion based on the occupational history https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11248720/ Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt) Heat Stress Exposure Hypothesis: repetitive Heat stress induces tubular kidney injury kidney injury caused by physical work in the heat Exacerbated by can progress to CKDnt - higher core temperatures - dehydration - longer work durations - muscle-damaging exercise - consumption of beverages containing high levels of fructose hthttps://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpregu.00103.2021tps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11248720/ Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Summary Heat-related health effects can be acute or long-term Acute health effects include the specific disorders of hyperthermia, also known as heat-related illnesses (heat rash, heat syncope, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke), acute renal injury and cardiovascular strain. Chronic health effects include Chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt) Medical management Recognizing the symptoms of these Workplace management conditions is essential for Compensation Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Prevention Strategies for Occupational Heat Exposure Mitigating Risks and Protecting Worker Health Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Introduction Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Engineering Controls Modifications made to the workplace environment to reduce heat exposure. Engineering controls to prevent heat-related health effects include- 1. Cooling the work environment o Air conditioning (such as an air-conditioned crane or construction equipment cabs, air conditioning in break rooms) o Increased general ventilation o Cooling fans o Local exhaust ventilation at points of high heat production or moisture (such as exhaust hoods in laundry rooms) o Reflective shields to redirect radiant heat o Insulation of hot surfaces (such as furnace walls) o Elimination of steam leaks o Cooled seats or benches for rest breaks o Misting fans that produce a spray of fine water droplets 2. Mechanisation to reduce manual workload o Use of mechanical equipment to reduce manual work (such as conveyors and forklifts). Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Air conditioning Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Cooling fans Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Local exhaust ventilation at points of high heat production or moisture Misting Fan Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Mechanisation- Conveyor Belt Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Administrative Controls Some worksites cannot be cooled by engineering controls At those locations, employers should modify work practices when heat stress is too high to work safely Administrative controls to prevent heat-related health effects include- Work organisation Education and training Acclimatisation Emergency preparedness Medical assessments- fitness for work and medical surveillance Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Work Organisation Mandatory rest breaks in a cooler Duration proportional to degree of environment heat stress Scheduling work at a cooler time of day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Planning the work to minimise physical demands Rotate job functions among workers to help minimize exertion and heat exposure. Ensure that workers drink an adequate amount of water or electrolyte-containing fluids. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Work Organisation- Hydration Strategies Encourage workers to drink water regularly. Employers should establish hydration stations with easy access to water and electrolyte drinks. Monitor workers’ hydration status Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Work Organisation- Protect new employees Protect new employees → may not be used to the heat loads on that day → increased risk of heat-related health effects According to OSHA "workers who are new to working in warm environments" include the following groups: 1. New, temporary, or existing employees who start new work activities: a. In warm or hot environments b. While wearing additional clothing (e.g., chemical protective clothing) c. With increased physical activity 2. Workers returning to work environments with potential exposure to heat hazards after an absence of one week or more, for example, returning from any kind of extended leave. 3. Workers who continue working through seasonal changes when temperatures first begin to increase in the spring or early summer. 4. Workers who work on days when the weather is significantly warmer than on previous days (e.g. a heat wave). Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Work Organisation- Protect new employees 1. Modify work schedules and activities 2. Schedule shorter shifts 3. Monitor new workers closely for any symptoms of heat-related illness. 4. Give new workers more frequent rest breaks. 5. Use a buddy system and don’t allow new workers to work alone. 6. Train new workers about heat stress, symptoms of heat-related illness, and the importance of rest and water. 7. Build heat tolerance: acclimatisation Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Acclimatisation Acclimatisation → gradual adaption and tolerance of higher levels of heat stress Individual Factors (Personal characteristics & Pre-existing health conditions) may affect the acclimatization process. https://www.osha.gov/heat-exposure/protecting-new-workers Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Acclimatisation OSHA and NIOSH recommend the "Rule of 20 percent" for building heat tolerance: 20% First Day New workers should work only 20% of the normal duration on their first day. 20% Each Additional Day Increase work duration by 20% on subsequent days until the worker is performing a normal schedule. For example, if the normal workday lasts 8 hours, then new workers should work no more than 1 hour and 40 minutes (20% of 8 hours) on their first day in the heat. They can spend the rest of the workday without heat stress. Provide at least one rest break during the period when working in a hot environment. Workers should perform job tasks that are similar in intensity to their expected work To help workers build heat tolerance, reduce the duration of the work but not the intensity of the work https://www.osha.gov/heat-exposure/protecting-new-workers Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Emergency Preparedness Have an emergency plan that specifies what to do if a worker has signs of heat-related illness Ensures that medical support is available if needed. Buddy system Workers should be prepared to administer appropriate first aid to anyone who is developing a heat-related illness. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Training and Education Educate workers about: Signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses Importance of hydration Need for acclimatisation Training programs should emphasize recognizing heat stress and steps to take. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Fitness for Work and Medical Surveillance Workers who will be exposed to heat stress should receive pre-placement and periodic medical examinations. Past medical history Occupational history Assessment could Assessment of personal risk factors include Physical examination Measurement of serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate Temporary or permanent work restrictions may be recommended when indicated Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) In some limited situations, special cooling devices can protect workers in hot environments Examples include: Insulated suits Reflective clothing Infrared-reflecting face shields Cooling neck wraps In extremely hot conditions, the following thermally conditioned clothing might be used: Vest that receives cooled air from a vortex tube connected to an external compressed air source. Jackets or vests with reusable ice packs or phase change cooling packs in the pockets. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) In some limited situations, special cooling devices can protect workers in hot environments Examples include: Insulated suits Reflective clothing Infrared-reflecting face shields Cooling neck wraps In extremely hot conditions, the following thermally conditioned clothing might be used: Vest that receives cooled air from a vortex tube connected to an external compressed air source. Jackets or vests with reusable ice packs or phase change cooling packs in the pockets. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Monitoring and Assessing Heat Stress Tools and Methods for Ensuring Worker Safety Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index takes into account temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation to provide a comprehensive measure of heat stress. Employers can use a WBGT monitor to determine appropriate work-rest cycles and make informed decisions about job tasks and work schedules. WBGT thresholds are available to guide heat stress management. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Wearable Technology Wearable devices such as smart watches, chest straps, and armbands can track physiological parameters like heart rate, skin temperature, and sweat rate. These data points provide insights into an individual worker's heat strain and help identify early signs of heat stress. Some devices have built-in alerts to notify workers and supervisors when heat stress levels approach dangerous thresholds. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Legislation Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe OHSA- Environmental Regulations for Workplaces Regulation 5(4) of the Environmental Regulations for Workplaces regulates workers' exposure to hot environments. The regulations require, where the average WBGT index exceeds 30 ºC in the environment in which an employee works, that an employer takes the following steps: Bring down the index to below 30 ºC; If that is not reasonably practicable, to: Certify the workers fit for work in hot environments. Acclimatise workers to working conditions. Encourage every employee to partake of at least 600 ml of fluid per hour. Train every employee in precautions to be taken to avoid heat stroke. Provide prompt first aid treatment in the case of heat stroke. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Mine Health and Safety Act Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Conclusion Occupational heat exposure is a significant concern that requires attention and action. By understanding the risks, implementing effective prevention strategies, and leveraging emerging technologies and research, we can create safer work environments for all workers. Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe Medicine and Health Sciences · EyeNzululwazi ngezoNyango neMpilo · Geneeskunde en Gesondheidswetenskappe