Extreme heat, heat wave: at work, adopt the right reflexes! – Featured

2023-07-18 12:38:43

July 18, 2023

Dehydration, fatigue, heat stroke… Working in a heat wave can pose health risks. So, whether you are an employee or an employer, adopt the right reflexes.

Fatigue, sweating, nausea, headaches, dizziness, cramps… These common heat-related symptoms can be precursors to more serious or even fatal disorders such as dehydration or heatstroke.

As an employee, drink water regularly… even if you don’t feel thirsty. Place markers for this. “A few sips every 20 minutes” for example. If your company or your function does not require you to wear specific clothing, wear loose, light clothing… And if you work outdoors, protect your head with a hat or cap.

As much as possible, reduce heavy physical exertion. If you are outside, choose shaded areas. For any charging port, use a mechanical aid such as a trolley or a hand truck… Some devices are sources of heat. Consider turning off computers or lights not in use. In addition, avoid all alcoholic beverages, limit your tobacco consumption and ban meals that are too fatty and too copious.

If you are an employer

In France, the Labor Code does not determine a maximum temperature, but it obliges employers to ensure that their employees are able to work in safe conditions. If you are a boss and your teams work outdoors, arrange working hours to make the most of the cooler hours. Also increase the frequency of breaks. If possible, limit the time your employees are exposed to the sun. For example, rotate tasks.

Finally, and this for all companies, install sources of drinking water near workstations. Provide air-conditioned rest areas or create shaded areas. Also think regarding fans or foggers… And insofar as it is preferable to prevent, inform your employees of the risks related to heat.

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