Heat Stress Prevention Plan Training

[Virtual Presenter] The purpose of this training session is to emphasize the importance of working together to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. We aim to educate and empower each other to prevent heat-related illnesses and promote well-being..

[Audio] California employers have a legal obligation to protect their workers from the hazards of excessive heat exposure. The state's regulations require employers to develop written heat illness prevention procedures for both indoor and outdoor workplaces. These procedures must address the specific needs of each type of workplace, taking into account factors such as temperature, humidity, and workload. By developing and implementing effective heat illness prevention procedures, employers can help ensure a safer and healthier work environment for their employees..

[Audio] The Plant Manager has overall authority and responsibility for implementing the provisions of this program in our workplace. Managers and supervisors are also responsible for implementing and maintaining the Heat Illness Prevention Program in their assigned work areas. They ensure workers receive answers to questions about the procedures in a language they understand. Workers are responsible for using safe work practices, following all directives, policies, and procedures, and assisting in maintaining a safe work environment. This plan is available in both English and Spanish. It's kept at the worksite in the safety office and can be accessed electronically on the safety manual shared folder. Workers or their representatives can access it upon request..

[Audio] Fresh, pure, suitably cool water will be provided to workers free of charge. Touchless water fountains are available in the breakroom, outside the shipping office, bottom kicker station, wet-end, and front office. There is also an ice machine located inside the employee breakroom. Supervisors will ensure that the water is always fresh, pure, and suitably cool, checking the water dispensers regularly through Pure Water Company and replacing filters according to schedule. Workers are encouraged to drink small amounts of water frequently throughout their shift, with supervisors reminding them to do so. When temperatures rise above 85 degrees, employees will be reminded to drink plenty of water..

[Audio] Before starting work, pre-shift meetings will be held to discuss the importance of staying hydrated and taking regular breaks. Everyone will be reminded of their right to take a cool-down rest if needed. To ensure heat illness prevention, the frequency of water breaks will be increased. As leaders, we will set a good example by drinking water ourselves throughout the day..

[Audio] In our workplace, we have designated cool down areas where employees can take a break from their tasks to cool off. These areas are strategically located throughout the facility to ensure easy access. The five specific locations where employees can go to cool down are the breakroom, the training room, the control room, the shipping office, and the maintenance office. These areas provide a comfortable temperature and humidity level, allowing employees to rest and recover from the heat. By providing these cool down areas, we are giving our employees the opportunity to take proactive steps towards preventing heat-related illnesses..

[Audio] When temperatures hit 87 degrees, control measures will be implemented. Engineering controls include fans at the dry end and misting fans at the wet and dry ends, as well as adjusting exhaust fans for better airflow. Administrative controls include providing cooling towels, electrolyte tablets, and pop cycles to employees, as well as mandatory cooling breaks supervised by management. In case of emergencies, a trained first aid/CPR employee will respond promptly and coordinate care until advanced medical help arrives..

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[Audio] When temperatures reach 87 degrees, we implement control measures to ensure a safe working environment. We utilize engineering controls such as fans at the dry end and misting fans at both wet and dry ends, as well as adjusting exhaust fans to improve airflow. Additionally, administrative controls are in place, including providing cooling towels to all employees, distributing electrolyte tablets, offering pop cycles on excessively hot days, and mandating cooling breaks when necessary, led by supervisors and leads. These measures demonstrate our commitment to protecting employee health and well-being during periods of high temperature..

[Audio] All supervisors will upload the OSHA/NIOSH App to their phones to monitor the weather daily. This app will provide real-time data on temperature and humidity levels, enabling us to take proactive measures against heat-related illnesses. New employees will undergo a 14-day monitoring period, during which they will be paired with an experienced colleague. This pairing will allow them to learn from someone who has already gone through the same process, thereby reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses. By doing so, we can guarantee a safer working environment for everyone..

[Audio] In situations where a worker exhibits signs of heat illness, it is essential that we respond rapidly and effectively. Trained first aid/CPR employees, who are also part of the safety committee, ensure prompt access to emergency services for the affected worker. Mild symptoms warrant taking the employee to the nearest climate-controlled break area and close monitoring. Severe cases necessitate swift action to cool the employee down, either by relocating them to a cooling area or providing cooling measures while dialing 911. The emergency response first aid team coordinates care until advanced EMS arrives. By adhering to these procedures, we can reduce the risk of serious injury or even death from heat-related illnesses..

[Audio] When experiencing heat illness symptoms, it's essential to take immediate action to prevent further complications. Move to a cool place, such as an air-conditioned area, to reduce your body temperature quickly. Loosen your clothing to allow for better airflow and help your body cool down more efficiently. Drink water to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Place a cool, wet towel on your skin to lower your body temperature. Apply an ice pack to your head and body to provide rapid relief from heat-related discomfort. By taking these steps promptly, you can effectively alleviate heat illness symptoms and prevent serious health issues..

[Audio] Heat illness occurs when the body's ability to regulate its temperature is impaired, resulting in a rise in body temperature above normal levels. Heat stroke is a serious condition that requires immediate attention. The signs and symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, confusion, slurred speech, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Treatment of heat stroke involves cooling the body as quickly as possible, usually through immersion in water or application of wet towels. Other treatments may include administering fluids and electrolytes, and providing supportive care such as oxygen therapy. If left untreated, heat stroke can lead to serious complications, including brain damage, organ failure, and even death. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms early and seek medical help immediately if any of these symptoms appear..

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