Heat Illnesses and How to Protect Employees

Updated:
July 12, 2018

While it’s best not to work outside in high temperatures, the nature of certain jobs—like construction or landscaping—sometimes makes it unavoidable. When this happens, workers’ body temperatures can rise to dangerously high levels and put them at risk of experiencing serious heat illnesses.

There are a variety of heat illnesses that vary in symptoms and severity. The following are common heat illnesses to be aware of:

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are caused by heavy sweating, especially when water is not replaced quickly enough. Frequently, symptoms do not occur until after work, at night or when relaxing. Although heat cramps can be quite painful, they usually don't result in permanent damage.

Heat Exhaustion

In heat exhaustion, surface blood vessels and capillaries—which are meant to enlarge to cool the blood—collapse from loss of body fluids and necessary minerals. Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, heavy sweating, intense thirst, dizziness, fatigue, loss of coordination and impaired judgment.

Heat Stroke

Heat Stroke is a life-threatening illness with a high death rate. It occurs when the body has depleted its supply of water and salt, and the individual’s core body temperature rises to deadly levels. Advanced symptoms may include seizures, convulsions, collapse, loss of consciousness and a body temperature over 42° C.

In order to protect workers, consider implementing the following workplace controls:

  •  Automate or mechanize certain processes to reduce a worker’s exposure to heat.
  • Reduce radiant heat by covering or insulating hot surfaces.
  • Increase ventilation or provide air conditioning to remove hot air.
  • Ensure workers are supervised at all times.
  • Allow employees to work slower during the hottest periods of the day.
  • Ensure that adequate water is available at the beginning of each shift and throughout the workday.

In addition to the above, employers should provide adequate training on heat illnesses. This training should detail how to recognize heat illnesses and perform emergency response procedures.

FAQs

What is financial advising?

Financial advising involves providing guidance and advice to individuals, families, or businesses to help them make informed decisions about their financial matters. This can include various aspects such as investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, and more. Financial advisors analyze their clients' financial situations, goals, and risk tolerance to create customized strategies that align with their objectives.

Why is financial planning important?

Financial planning is crucial for several reasons:

Goal Achievement: It helps individuals set and achieve financial goals, whether they are short-term, such as buying a home, or long-term, like funding a comfortable retirement.

Risk Management: Financial planning addresses risks by considering insurance, emergency funds, and other protective measures.

Budgeting and Saving: It promotes responsible money management through budgeting and saving, fostering financial stability.

Wealth Building: Effective financial planning can lead to wealth accumulation and the creation of a secure financial future.

Can financial advisors help with debt?

Yes, financial advisors can help with debt management. They can assess your overall financial situation, create a budget, and develop strategies to pay down debt efficiently. They may also negotiate with creditors on your behalf, provide debt consolidation recommendations, and offer guidance on prioritizing and managing debt repayment.

What exactly does a financial advisor do?

The specific responsibilities of a financial advisor can vary, but generally, they:

  1. Conduct a thorough analysis of a client's financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
  2. Develop personalized financial plans based on the client's goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
  3. Provide investment advice and portfolio management services.
  4. Offer guidance on retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, and insurance.
  5. Monitor and adjust financial plans as needed based on changes in the client's life or market conditions.
  6. Educate clients on financial matters and empower them to make informed decisions.
What is the average fee for a financial advisor?

The fees charged by financial advisors can vary widely based on factors such as the advisor's experience, the services provided, and the region.

Common fee structures include:

Hourly Fees: Advisors charge an hourly rate for their services.
Flat or Fixed Fees: A set fee is charged for specific services or a comprehensive financial plan.
Asset-based Fees: Fees are a percentage of the assets under management (AUM).
Commission-based Fees: Advisors earn commissions on financial products they sell.
Combination of Fees: Advisors may use a combination of the above fee structures.
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It's important to discuss and clarify fee arrangements with a potential financial advisor before engaging in their services.