Heat Stress – Health Alert – MSHA

Mining in hot work areas during summer can cause serious health issues for miners. Everyone needs to recognize the hazards of heat stress and mine operators should provide heat-stress recognition training, monitoring, and personal protective equipment.

Symptoms of Heat Stress:
• Skin is hot, usually dry, red or spotted.
• Body temperature is over 105˚ F.
• Victim may be confused.
• The face may be pale or flushed.
• Muscle cramps from loss of sodium.

Heat Stress Prevention:
• Provide cool drinking water near miners.
• Encourage miners to drink a cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes.
• Avoid drinks with caffeine and large amounts of sugar.
• Use sunblockers, proper protective clothing and shade.
• Use administrative controls to rotate miners on hot jobs.
• Schedule heavy tasks during cooler times of the day.
Treat Symptoms:

DO:
+ Remove the miner from the hot area.
+ Apply cool wet cloths.
+ Give water if miner is awake.
+ Seek medical attention if there is no improvement.

DO NOT:

– Apply ice directly to the skin.
– Allow the miner to become so cold that shivering develops.
– Leave the miner alone.

Miners and mine operators can find safety and health information on MSHA.gov