ACRE Safety Thought #26

I think air conditioning has made us all a little more sensitive to heat stress. Hazards at ACRE during the summer include heat stress and sunstroke, so be aware of working conditions. At ACRE we have 2 water fountains in the Research Building’s employee breakroom area, as well as, a refrigerator and cola machine. Fluids are available. Shade is available during breaks. My employees have their own water jugs to provide fluids as needed. I personally freeze water bottles about 3/4 full and finish filling with water so they last until the next break. A hat with a wide brim would help too. A supervisor might think about providing a water cooler and paper cups. Get ice from the campus machine or at a service station on the way out. There is no reason to work until you are sick but there is no reason for a healthy adult to not work in hot Indiana weather with available fluids and a few cool down breaks. Does anyone remember the 105 degree heat during the summer of 1988? Think, plan, and work safely at ACRE. Jim