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Heat
Illnesses For those without A/C,
there are some steps to take to ensure more comfortable surroundings.
It is important to recognize the signs of Heat Cramps, Heat Stroke, and
Heat Exhaustion. Heat Cramps are
painful, involuntary muscle spasms that usually occur during heavy exercise in
hot environments. Heat Stroke
sufferers have a markedly higher temperature (40+), hot dry skin and changes
in mental status. Other issues may
include an increase in pulse rate and/or blood
pressure, breathing difficulties and the absence of sweating. Heat
Exhaustion begins suddenly after excessive exercise and includes feeling
shocky, faint and nauseous, with a
rapid pulse, and low blood
pressure. All three of the above described conditions can be very serious.
Know who the trained first aiders are in the building and ensure that
they know about these three seasonal issues and how to respond. To help prevent heat-related illnesses,
ensure that you are well-hydrated.
Water is always recommended throughout the day and before activities
begin. Other sport-type drinks on
the market work well for some people, while it is documented that caffeine and
alcohol do not help to keep oneself hydrated. If your classroom is too hot, ask your administrator for fans for
cooling purposes. If you happen to
bring one in, ensure with the admin that they approve of it.
There is no temperature maximum in schools,
but employers must “take every precaution reasonable for the
protection of a worker.” OHSA 25,2,h To figure out the humidex reading in your classroom,
you will need three things: a
thermometer, a hygrometer,
and a humidex calculator. Take
the temperature in celsius and the relative humidity reading as a percentage
and plug them into the humidex calculator at this site.
The calculator figures out the humidex reading and its implications
with regards to your health and what you can do about it.
EmployeeAccidentForm 02-07.pdf
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