Carl Hamilton, Director of Safety

With summer temps on the rise, Stevens Leinweber Construction Inc. Director of Safety Carl Hamilton encourages construction teams to watch for the three stages of heat stress.

HEAT CRAMPS

Cause:
Heavy perspiration that depletes the body’s water and salt.

Symptoms:
Muscle cramps
Pain or spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs

First Aid:
Sit and rest in a cool place.
Drink sports drinks, juice or water with food.
After recovery, do not begin strenuous work again for several hours.Seek medical help if you have heart problems, are on a low-sodium diet or if you don’t feel better after one hour.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Cause:
The body can’t cool itself efficiently due to dehydration.

Symptoms:

Rapid, weak pulse
Headache
Heavy sweating
Extreme weakness
Dizziness or fainting
Irritability
Nausea or vomiting
Cold, pale, clammy skin

First Aid:
Sit and rest in a cool place.
Drink small amounts of cool water.
Take a cool shower or bath, or apply ice packs.
Get medical help if symptoms do not improve within 30 minutes.Seek medical attention immediately if there is confusion, vomiting or fainting, which may indicate a more serious condition.

HEAT STROKE

Cause:
The body is unable to control its temperature due to prolonged exposure or physical exertion in high temperatures. Untreated, it can quickly cause death or disability.

Symptoms:
High body temperature
Strong, rapid pulse
Confusion
Loss of coordination
Hot, red, dry or moist skin
Nausea and vomiting
Seizure or unconsciousness

First Aid:
Contact emergency medical services immediately.
Move to a cool, shaded area.
Remove excess clothing.
Cool the body quickly with ice or cold water.
Administer cool fluids if individual is able to drink.

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