Report from the CCOHS – August 2024
Ultraviolet Rays from The Sun
Even on cloudy days, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause premature skin aging, sun burns, skin cancer, and eye damage. Layering on personal sun protection is a must for workers to reduce the risk of sun harm.
Workers should wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants in sun-resistant fabric, UV-rated sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat that covers the head, face, ears and neck. A backflap or visor can also be added to hard hats.
A broad-spectrum, waterproof sunscreen and lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 should be applied every two hours and after sweating. Workers should also seek shade as much as possible under trees or canopies and structures on the jobsite.
Understanding the UV index, which measures the strength of the sun’s UV rays, can help determine the level of risk to workers daily, and what precautions to take to lower the risk. The higher the UV index, the greater the need for precautions, so check the local UV index forecast when scheduling outdoor work. Where possible, schedule less strenuous tasks between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., when UV radiation is at its strongest.
Extreme Heat and Humidity
Direct sun also puts workers at risk of heat stress. And with global warming caused by climate change, extreme heat events are becoming more frequent.
The body aims to maintain a constant internal temperature of 37 C at all times. In hot weather, the body produces sweat, which cools the body as it evaporates. As the humidity or moisture content of the air increases, sweat does not evaporate as readily and under these circumstances, the body temperature rises and may cause illness. Heat stress occurs when a worker’s heart rate and core body temperature rise. It can lead to heat rash or prickly heat, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and even death.
Providing access to drinking water and encouraging breaks in areas where workers can cool down can help reduce risk.
Employers can also supply cooling wear to workers, such as vests, neck shades and headwear with built-in cooling mechanisms.
During extreme heat events, check on workers for any irregular behaviour and know the warning signs of heat stress. Symptoms can include muscle cramps, fainting, nausea, extreme thirst, and weakness.
Extreme heat can also cause severe weather events, such as lightning storms. Since there is no safe place to be outdoors during lightning, ensure workers are trained to avoid areas that conduct electricity and to seek safe shelter in a storm. As with any emergency response, pre-planning, including the provision of first aid and medical care for affected workers, is key to reducing risk in the face of extreme weather conditions.
My opinion
This is the second leg of a 3-part series to better protect workers during what could have been a hot and humid summer.
Please review all three and add the key points to your own heat stress program.
HRS Group Inc. has a great team that can help you with all your health and safety needs including ‘Heat Stress’ and ’Heat Stroke’.
Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259.
We can also be reached at
Ensure your workplace is a safe place.
Remember – In Canada, “ALL Accidents are Preventable”
‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.
Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Advanced Level
CEO & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.
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