Heat exhaustion is more serious than cramps. It occurs when the body doesn’t have enough blood volume to keep the skin capillaries open to dissipate heat. Symptoms include dizziness, headaches, nausea, and loss of coordination or judgment. The worker needs rest, cooling and fluids immediately.

Heat stroke is a life threatening illness caused by severe dehydration and vascular collapse, leading to dangerously high core body temperatures (>104.0° F). The affected person has hot, dry skin from lack of sweating. They might have all the symptoms of heat exhaustion, but are typically confused or even unconscious. The heat stroke victim needs emergency medical attention.

The best way to avoid heat related illness is to dress sensibly and drink plenty of fluids. If you wait until you’re thirsty on a hot day you are already behind on hydration. Take a brief rest in a cool place if you feel light headed or have a headache. Fans help with body cooling by increasing sweat evaporation and cooling.

More useful tips for avoiding heat-related health problems can be found in the following links: