Fall may be on the horizon, but lingering summer heat can still pose serious risks for farmers and agricultural workers.
While the days are getting shorter, blistering temperatures and muggy weather persist, with temperatures remaining in the upper 80s and into the 90s. Research has found that agricultural workers are at the greatest risk of heat exposure, and are 35 times more likely to die from heat-related illness compared to workers in other industries. AgriSafe Network also reports that the highest percentage of heat-related deaths occurred among people 55-64 years old.
Hot temperatures, humidity and direct sunlight combined with physically demanding work can cause dehydration, fatigue, nausea, weakness, irritability, muscle cramps, heat rash and heat exhaustion. Additionally, heavy sweating causes the body to lose fluids and valuable nutrients. Those working outdoors on hot days should take regular breaks in the shade, and rehydrate with water and sports drinks to replenish electrolytes like potassium, magnesium and sodium.
“Along with being physically dangerous, heat can affect your focus and decision-making, increasing the risk for accidents,” said Matt Nuckols, Virginia Farm Bureau Federation’s farm safety coordinator. “When you start feeling the effects of extreme heat, don’t try to push through it. Slow down and take some time to cool off before continuing.”
The most serious heat-related illness is heatstroke, which occurs when the body fails to cool itself, and core temperatures can rise to 106 degrees or higher within minutes.
Anyone showing heatstroke symptoms like confusion, altered mental state, slurred speech, hot, dry skin, or profuse sweating should be moved to a cooler area and given ice packs or cold water. Call 911 for emergency medical care.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration notes that even temperatures below 80 degrees can pose risks when people are engaging in strenuous work like carrying, shoveling, walking at a fast pace and pushing heavy loads.
Tips to prevent heat-related illness:
Rest and take breaks in the shade to cool down.
Drink water every 15 minutes, even if you’re not thirsty.
Combine drinking water with electrolyte drinks to replace sodium, potassium and magnesium lost through sweating.
Wear breathable, lightweight and light-colored clothing, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
Any exposed skin should be covered with sweat- and water-resistant sunscreen rated SPF 15 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol and drugs, and limit sugar and salt intake because they can accelerate dehydration.
Save strenuous work for early mornings or evenings when temperatures are cooler.
Know the signs of heat illness and what to do during an emergency.
Keep an eye on fellow workers.
