RJ OIL PRODUCTION PROJECTS

SPEARHEADING HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT

Heat Illness Prevention

Heat Illnesses are a group of conditions which often result from over exposure / exertion
in excessively hot environmental conditions. A healthy human body reacts to high
temperatures by circulating blood flow to the skin, temperature raises, and heat is
reduced through sweating and cooling of the skin surface.
Physical Factors affect body’s Type of Heat Illnesses:
core temperature:
Sun Burn
Age
Heat Rash
Weight
Fitness Heat Cramps
Medical condition Heat Exhaustion
Acclimatization to heat Heat Stroke
Clothing

Heat Exhaustion: This condition usually develops gradually from exposure to high temperatures
and if treated correctly by giving water (fluids), rest and removing person to cool area – one can
expect a quick recovery. If symptoms (excessive sweating, dizziness, weakness muscle cramps,
thirst, headache etc.) are not recognised and properly treated, heat exhaustion can further develop
into the life threatening condition of Heat Stroke.
Heat Stroke: Heat stroke is a severe medical condition which occurs in high temperatures when
the body is unable to control core temperature and rises above 40ºC, Symptoms include: the
stoppage of sweating (skin dry), rapid heartbeat, rapid and shallow breathing, elevated or lowered
blood pressure, irritability or confusion appearance etc. If left untreated, unconsciousness may
occur leading to death. Priority life-saving treatment: Do all to promptly cool the victim’s body &
core temperature while seeking immediate medical support.

Heat Illness Prevention Guidelines

Provide and use rest shelters near work locations
Provide and encourage the frequent drinking of water
Maintain electrolytes by eating regular healthy meals
Maintain awareness by educating work force
Plan for regular rest periods and work breaks
Wear lightweight / loose fitting clothes
Avoid:
Coffee
Alcohol
Caffeinated Drinks (i.e. Coke / Pepsi)
Schedule demanding work to coolest times of day
Rotate work force regularly
Everyone should monitor their co-workers (buddy system)
Never work alone
If you run out of water, STOP work immediately and source.
Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion & heat stroke
Always acclimatize to hot weather (10 – 14 days)
Follow Cairn Heat Stress Prevention Guidelines.

066A3 HSE Bulletin- May 2019