Major risk factor

Brothers and Sisters, 

The summer is in full swing and the work outlook is good for both drywall and paint. With that being said, we have also been experiencing record heat levels. We need to look out for one another when we are out in the field. July has set record highs in the Sacramento region with temperatures above 110 degrees. Millions of U.S. workers are exposed to heat in their workplaces. Although illness from exposure to heat is preventable, every year, thousands become sick from occupational heat exposure, and some cases are fatal. Most outdoor fatalities, 50% to 70%, occur in the first few days of working in warm or hot environments because the body needs to build a tolerance to the heat gradually over time. The process of building tolerance is called heat acclimatization. Lack of acclimatization represents a major risk factor for fatal outcomes.

Occupational risk factors for heat illness include heavy physical activity, warm or hot environmental conditions, lack of acclimatization, and wearing clothing that holds in body heat. (See also, personal risk factors, below.)

Hazardous heat exposure can occur indoors or outdoors, and can occur during any season if the conditions are right, not only during heat waves. 

Here are some OSHA recommendations when it comes to heat illness. 

Be safe out there.

In solidarity,

William Gonzalez