MoPH shares safety measures against heat illness at work

Doha: As temperatures continue to rise during the summer, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has shared several measures to prevent heat illness at work.

MoPH listed the following tips to protect yourself and others from the danger of heat exposure in outdoor and indoor areas. 

1. Drink cool water even if you are not thirsty - at least 1 cup every 20 minutes. 
2. Take enough time to recover from heat given the temperature, humidity, and conditions. 
3. Take breaks in a designated shady or cool location.
4. Wear a hat and light-coloured, loose-fitting, breathable clothing if possible.
5. Monitor yourself and others for signs of heat illness.
6. Change your face covering if it gets wet or soiled. Verbally check on others frequently. 

The Ministry also mentioned the importance of easing into work, wherein new and returning workers need to build tolerance to heat (acclimatize) and take frequent breaks. 

It also encouraged everyone to follow the 20% rule.

"On the first day, work no more than 20% of the shift's duration at full intensity in the heat. Increase the duration of time at full intensity by no more than 20% a day until workers are used to working in the heat," MoPh stated. 

Apart from preventive measures, the Ministry also shared first aid tips and signs of a medical emergency for heat illness.

The signs of a medical emergency include:

1. Abnormal thinking or behaviour
2. Slurred speech
3. Seizures
4. Loss of consciousness

In the event of such occurrence, MoPH advised citizens and residents to immediately call 999, cool the worker right away with water or rice, and stay with the worker until help arrives. 

Other signs of heat illness also involve:

- Headache or nausea
- Weakness or dizziness
- Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin
- Elevated body temperature
- Thirst 
- Decreased urine output

If a worker experiences the mentioned signs of heat illness, MoPH encourages everyone to take these actions:

- Give water 
- Remove unnecessary clothing
- Move to a cooler area
- Cool with water, ice, or a fan
- Do not leave alone
- Seek medical care if needed