Skip to main navigation Skip to main content

​​​​​​​A worker in a high-visibility vest wipes sweat from his brow.​​​​​​​​​

The Division of OSH Education and Training, known as KYSAFE, is conducting an enhanced heat illness outreach campaign.  

KYSAFE is also addressing heat related issues on all consultation and training activities.

​Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke

​Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:

High body temperature
Rapid breathing and heart rate
Muscle cramps
Headache
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Heavy sweating
Pale clammy skin
Nausea and vomiting
Weakness and fatigue


Heat Stroke Symptoms:

Confusion or agitation
Hallucinations and an altered mental state
Inability to sweat
Dry, red skin
Fainting or unconsciousness
Slurred speech
Very high body temperature (more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit)
Seizures


​If you suspect heat exhaustion, take these steps immediately:

Move the person out of the heat and into a shady or air-conditioned place.
Lay the person down and elevate the legs and feet slightly.
Remove tight or heavy clothing.
Have the person sip chilled water, a decaffeinated sports drink containing electrolytes or other nonalcoholic beverage without caffeine.
Cool the person by spraying or sponging with cool water and fanning.
Monitor the person carefully.
Contact a health care provider if signs or symptoms worsen or if the person doesn't improve after taking first-aid measures.


If you suspect heatstroke, which is a life-threatening condition:
Call 911 or your local emergency number if the person's condition gets worse, especially if he or she experiences:

Fainting
Agitation
Confusion
Seizures
Inability to drink
Body temperature of 104 Fahrenheit or higher

If you are a sub-contractor at a jobsite, follow protocol to notify supervisors and/or parent company contact person quickly in case the person’s symptoms might require professional medical care or a call to 911.


​Prevention Methods:

Water and salt replacement

Rest breaks in shady or cool area

Observe temperature, heat index and workload

Adjust work times, rotate work shifts

Acclimatization - 5 to 7 days to adjust to the heat

Have a plan for heat related emergencies

Buddy system - monitor employee health

Recognize symptoms of heat stress illnesses​



​​​​

​Safety and Health Branch Managers

​​​J​ohn D. C​labaugh, MS, CSP, CHST

Safety Branch Manager
Safety Consultation
502-564-3345
john​.clabaugh@ky.gov


​Susan Montgomery

Health Branch Manager
Health Consultation
502-564-2753​
susans.montgomery@ky.gov​​​​