Portland, OR — In response to seven worker deaths caused by heat-related illnesses in the state over a recent 11-year period, the Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences has issued a hazard alert.
The alert cites National Safety Council data showing that, in the United States, 442 workers died from heat-related illnesses between 2013 and 2023. It also details three of the worker deaths in the state over that span.
The institute recommends employers use heat monitoring wearable devices that track core body temperature, heart rate and other vital signs to help detect early symptoms of heat-related illness and alert both workers and supervisors.
The alert also states that workers should remain aware of their personal risk factors, including:
- Diabetes, high blood pressure and other health conditions
- Medications such as antihistamines and diuretics
- Drug and/or alcohol use and lower water consumption
Physical traits – such as being 60 or older, having a lower level of physical fitness, pregnancy, and a history of heat illness – also can be risk factors.
The institute encourages employers to allow workers who are new to a job or the local climate/conditions to acclimatize – “gradually build up a tolerance to heat by working shorter periods over one or two weeks before transitioning to longer shifts. This allows the body to safely adjust to hot working conditions and should also be followed when temperatures rise suddenly, such as during heat waves.”
Other tips: Educate workers on heat hazards, heat illness prevention, the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and dehydration, and how to respond to a heat-related emergency.
