IT'S HOT - WORK SAFE!
June 14, 2020

With the extreme heat and humidity hitting our area, we remind all IBEW Local 21 Union members to take proper precautions while working outside, going to and from work, and while enjoying your time at home. We also ask that you check on your co-workers, family, friends, neighbors and all others who may be at risk.

The Heat Index is a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature. To find the Heat Index temperature, look at the Heat Index Chart below or check the Heat Index Calculator. If the air temperature is 96°F and the relative humidity is 65%, the heat index is 121°F. Click on the chart to learn more.

Every year, thousands of workers become sick from exposure to heat, and some even die. Our members and others in our industry who are working hard to do their jobs do fall victim to heat-related injuries. These illnesses and deaths are preventable.  All IBEW Local Union 21 members should review safety documentation given to them by their employers. Supplemental information on working in hot weather can be found on OSHA’s website osha.gov.

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Did you know your body is constantly in a struggle to disperse the heat it produces?  Most of the time, you're hardly aware of it unless your body is exposed to more heat than it can handle.  During extremely hot and humid weather, your body's ability to cool itself is challenged. When the body heats too rapidly to cool itself properly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration or sweating, body temperature rises and you or someone you care about may experience a heat-related illness. It is important to know the symptoms of excessive heat exposure and the appropriate responses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides a list of warning signs and symptoms of heat illness, and recommended first aid steps.

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Drinking water often, taking breaks, and limiting time in the heat can help prevent heat-related illness. It’s important to know and look out for the symptoms of heat-related illness in yourself and others during hot weather.

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