By Ashley McLeod-Morin
Due to the nature of their work during the extreme heat of summer, those who work on farms are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses than the general population. The Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Health and Safety, led by the University of Florida, has compiled heat illness educational resources (see tinyurl.com/2u5mh642) for farmers and farmworkers to help them monitor signs of heat illness.
HOT JOB
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has listed agriculture as one of the industries with the highest risk of heat-related illness and death. Employers should ensure a heat illness prevention plan is in place to guarantee the health and safety of their workers.
Heat illness is a common occupational hazard in agriculture, particularly for workers who are exposed to high temperatures and humidity, resulting in a range of heat-related illnesses, such as heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Some factors that contribute to heat illness in agriculture include the physical demands of the work, lack of shade or cooling facilities and inadequate hydration. Certain crops, such as those grown in hot and humid environments, can also increase the risk of heat illness.
To prevent heat illness in agriculture, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (CDC/NIOSH) recommends training workers on how to recognize the risks of heat exposure and the symptoms of heat illness.
KEEP COOL
CDC/NIOSH recommends the following steps should be taken to reduce the risk of heat-related illness for workers in hot and humid environments:
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day to help prevent dehydration, which can worsen heat stress. Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol or excessive sugar, as these can cause dehydration.
Take breaks to cool off. Take frequent breaks in a shaded or air-conditioned area to help your body cool down. If no such areas are available, create shade with a canopy or umbrella.
Dress appropriately. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, which allow sweat to evaporate and help cool the body.
Schedule smartly. Try to schedule outdoor work during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Avoid working during the hottest parts of the day.
Use personal protective equipment (PPE). Wear PPE, such as hats, sunglasses and sunscreen, to protect skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
Train workers. Provide training to workers on the risks of heat exposure and how to prevent and recognize symptoms of heat illness.
The Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Health and Safety is part of CDC/NIOSH’s Agriculture Health and Safety Initiative. The program explores
and addresses the occupational safety and health needs of people working in agriculture, forestry and fishing in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Visit sccahs.org to learn more about the center’s agricultural health and safety-related research and educational programs.
FOOTNOTE: Ashley McLeod-Morin (ashleynmcleod@ufl.edu) is associate director of strategic communication for the Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Health and Safety.