Workplace Exposure

Washington — In light of reports of avian flu in dairy cattle and “a small number of workers exposed to infected animals,” OSHA has issued a hazard alert.

Pregnancy increases the risk of heatstroke or heat exhaustion on the job because the body must work harder to cool itself, according to OSHA. Pregnant workers are also more likely to become dehydrated, “a primary contributor to heat-related illness.”

Proper hydration is essential for preventing heat-related illnesses.

Miners who work in cold temperatures are at risk for cold stress, which may trigger hypothermia, frostbite, and other injuries and illnesses.

Working outdoors already involves many hazards. Add cold temperatures during the winter months, and the number of risks grows.

Many workers have been diagnosed with some form of lung condition, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which means working in a lung-friendly workplace is key.

When wood is cut or sanded, it releases dust that workers can inhale.

From the blare of a forklift-collision warning to the wail of an ambulance siren, noise can make us aware of hazards our eyes haven’t yet seen. But not all noise is helpful.

Working outdoors in the heat puts you at risk of becoming dehydrated. But what exactly does that mean?

Topical insect repellents containing DEET are popular and have been shown to be effective. The concentration of DEET in a product reflects the period of time it’s expected to be effective.