Summer is Heating Up!

In the midst of summer, staying cool to avoid heatstroke is a must. Climbing temperatures and having employees work in the heat is a safety concern.

To help you stay cool and aware of best practices to follow while working in the heat, Kimball Midwest has several tips to help.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) created a Quick Card™ as an educational resource for all workers to prevent heat stress, illness and stroke.

According to the Quick Card™, risk factors for heat illness include high temperature and humidity, direct sun exposure, no breeze or wind, heavy physical labor, no recent exposure to hot workplaces and low liquid intake.

To avoid these risk factors, it is important to review the symptoms, prevention methods, protection methods and what to do in case of an emergency in relation to heat illness. The Quick Card™ is a great resource to reference, and so is Kimball Midwest. We provide products to protect workers and prevent heat illness.

Hydration is one of the key prevention methods for making sure you avoid heat illness. Kimball Midwest’s Sqwincher drink mixes and freeze pops are absorbed into the body 98% faster than water, allowing the body to replenish lost fluids, minerals and electrolytes quickly to keep you hydrated.

While you may stay hydrated, keeping cool might be difficult depending on the job at hand. Certi-Cool Cold Packs are an easy on-the-go option to have just in case shade or air conditioning is not close by in an emergency. The cold packs do not require refrigeration and stay cold for up to 15 minutes.

Keeping cool also means wearing the proper clothing. Breathable, lightweight clothing will help you not overheat as quickly and still protect against UV rays. Also, avoid working at the hottest times of the day, typically the afternoon, and block out any direct sunlight or heat source if you are able.

Reviewing the Quick Card™ and keeping Kimball Midwest in mind for products for prevention can prepare you for the highest of temperatures this summer.

If you have questions about products to help keep you or your workers cool this summer, reach out to your Kimball Midwest sales representative to find solutions that best fit your needs. If you do not have a sales rep but are interested in products to help you avoid heat illness, we can help you