The University of Georgia College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences (UGA/CAES) Cooperative Extension recently published an article to help protect farmworkers from extreme summer heat. UGA CAES Extension specialists Pam Knox, Rolando Orellana and Anna Scheyett contributed information to the article by UGA CAES writer Emily Cabrera.
A shortened, edited version of the article follows:
With heat index values reaching dangerous levels, farmers face increased risk of heat-related illness. Workers and supervisors should prioritize hydration, rest and mental well-being, as well as watch for signs of physical and emotional heat stress.
HEAT INDEX DRIVES DANGER
Temperature is only part of the heat risk equation. Temperature measures how hot the air is. Heat index tells how hot it feels to the human body, which is a more accurate measure of heat stress. The heat index combines air temperature and relative humidity. High humidity makes it harder for the body to cool itself by evaporating sweat. Even if the temperature doesn’t change, the air can feel much hotter when humidity is high, pushing the body closer to dangerous conditions.
Hotter temperatures increase discomfort as well as other risks like heat rash, dehydration and heatstroke. Heat stress also impairs decision-making and mental clarity.
HAVE A BUDDY
One of the most effective tools for heat protection is the buddy system. If a worker starts to overheat or collapse, a partner can help move that worker to shade or call for help.
HEAT SAFETY TIPS
Follow this advice to protect farmworkers:
- Wear light-colored, breathable clothing and consider sun-protective gear with built-in SPF.
- Use wide-brimmed hats to shield your face, ears and neck from direct sun exposure.
- If possible, schedule physically demanding tasks for early morning hours when temperatures are lower and workers are more alert.
- Take more frequent breaks in shaded or cooler areas to allow the body to recover.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Consider electrolyte-rich drinks to replenish what’s lost through sweat.
- Supervisors should take five minutes at the start of each shift to review heat-safety protocols with their teams.
WARNING SIGNS
When it’s hot outside, look for the following physical symptoms of heat-related illness:
- Dizziness or disorientation
- Heavy sweating or sudden lack of sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Slurred speech
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Cool, pale, clammy skin
- Alternatively red, hot or dry skin
- Fatigue or fainting
Mental and emotional warning signs include:
- Irritability or anger
- Trouble focusing or making decisions
- Withdrawing from others
- Feeling mentally foggy or overwhelmed
- Hopelessness or emotional numbness
If someone shows these or other signs of heatstroke or mental distress, stop work immediately and move them to a cool, shaded area. Help them lie down, offer fluids to keep them hydrated and provide calm, supportive conversation while they rest. Do not allow them to return to work until they’ve fully recovered. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
Source: UGA CAES
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