Recommended Care for Workers with Heat Illness

If a worker shows signs of heat shock or heat exhaustion, the following actions should be taken immediately:

• Immediately administer first aid. During this time, call 911 immediately if the following symptoms appear:
  • The worker shows signs of heat stroke.
  • The worker shows signs of heat exhaustion and no medical care is available.
  • The worker is unable to drink liquids.
• Make sure that someone stays with the worker.
• Move the worker to a cooler area.
• Encourage the worker to drink liquids.
• Remove unnecessary clothing, shoes, and socks.
• Cool the worker with cold compresses to the head, neck, and face.

If a worker experiences heat cramps, the worker should take the following actions:

• Drink carbohydrate electrolyte replacement liquids (such as sports drinks) alone or in combination with water and a snack.
• Drink these liquids every 15 to 20 minutes, even when not thirsty.
• Avoid salt tablets.
• Seek medical help in the following situations:
  • The worker has heart problems.
  • The worker is on a low sodium diet.
  • The muscle cramps do not subside within one hour.

If a worker shows signs of a possible heat rash, the worker should take the following actions:

• Move to a cooler, less humid work environment.
• Keep the rash area dry.
• Apply powder (such as talcum powder) to the rash area to increase comfort.
• Avoid ointments, creams, and any other substances that make the skin moist or warm.

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