Safety Alert

Heat-related illnesses

As the temperatures rise this summer, the risk of heat-related illnesses continues to grow. In the last couple of months, at least three serious claims involving heat stress have been reported to Texas Mutual. In one instance, the employee was working indoors and suffered a heat stroke. In another incident, an employee began experiencing heat stress symptoms and took a break inside to cool down. After returning outdoors to work, their symptoms worsened into heat stroke.

Safety tips:

• Start your workday fully hydrated and avoid caffeinated drinks.
• Drink at least one cup of water every 20 minutes and mix in drinks with electrolytes when you’ll be working in a hot environment for longer than a couple of hours.
• For mild to moderate symptoms of a heat-related illness, wait a few hours to return to work after symptoms have improved and seek medical attention if the condition does not improve within one hour.
• For severe symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, unconsciousness, and red, dry skin, call 911 immediately.

e-Learning course suggestions:

Heat Stress Causes

Heat Stress Symptoms & Prevention

Hot Work Safety

Operating heavy machinery on uneven terrain

An employee was operating heavy equipment while on a slope. The machine began sliding down the slope and rolled onto the employee, causing serious injuries.

Operating machinery on uneven or rough terrain poses a serious hazard for operators and other employees in the area. Operators need to be fully trained and understand the capabilities of the equipment before beginning work.

Safety tips:

• Inspect your equipment before operating it to ensure that items such as warning devices and the rollover protective structure (ROPS) are in good condition.
• Inspect the job site to be sure the ground is suitable for the specific equipment you’ll be operating and use outriggers when available.
• If your equipment has a seat belt, keep it buckled at all times.
• Avoid parking equipment on uneven terrain and ensure the brakes are engaged before dismounting.
• Always mount and dismount equipment using the proper step or ladder while maintaining three points of contact (one hand and two feet or two feet and one hand).

e-Learning course suggestions:

Driving Large Vehicles/Heavy Equipment

Heavy Equipment Visibility

Mount & Dismount Heavy Equipment

Courtesy of Texas Mutual

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