HAZWOPER — Know how to beat the heat!
What should employees do if they feel hot, faint, or tired while cleaning up a spill?
The quicker you say something on the job, the better. Your employer won’t always know how you feel as you work throughout the day. It’s crucial that you seek help immediately if you start to feel hot, tired, faint, or dizzy while you clean up spills. During the summer, your chances of experiencing heat-related illnesses is at an all-time high. Stop work immediately, report your symptoms immediately, and find a way to cool off as quickly as possible!
How can employees stay safe while on a job site during the warmest days?
There’s a lot you can do to stay safe on the job. During the warm summer months, it’s especially important to hydrate yourself throughout the day. Drink cold fluids and avoid sugary drinks like soda or sweet tea. Stop work when you need a moment to cool off, and avoid working alone. As always, follow your employer’s procedures for working outside in extreme heat.
How does HAZWOPER relate to construction activities?
Emergency spills can happen on a construction site, too. However, there’s an added danger due to the amount of traffic on a job site. Since vehicles and equipment can also be exposed to hazardous chemicals, it’s especially critical that you do your best to clean up the spill as quickly and carefully as possible. If the vehicles and equipment aren’t cleaned properly, there’s a chance they can spread hazardous chemicals throughout the entire job site.