Operator`s manual

28 - Mowing and Trimming Safety
Heat Stress
You can become seriously ill or die if proper precautions are not
taken while working in high temperatures and humidity. Heat can
reduce physical performance, as well as mental alertness, causing
more accidents.
Heat illness starts at heat exhaustion, and if not treated properly,
leads to heat stroke. Take action immediately if you notice anyone
with the symptoms found in the sidebar at the left of this page.
Avoid Heat Related Illnesses
It is important to drink plenty of uids and keep cool while working
outside.
4 Drink water often throughout the day; don’t wait until you’re
thirsty to get a drink. At least a quart of water per hour is
recommended.
4 Stay away from soda, coee, tea and alcoholic drinks that dehy-
drate the body.
4 Avoid large meals before working in the heat.
4 Some prescriptions can make you more susceptible to heat ill-
nesses. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if any medi-
cine you are taking could aect you while working in the heat.
4 Wear light-weight fabric, such as cotton, to help keep your
body cool.
4 Plan to do the heaviest work at the coolest part of the day. is is
usually between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m.
4 Take frequent, short breaks in shaded areas to cool down.
4 Do not take salt tablets, unless recommended by your doctor.
Most people receive enough salt in their diet to account for the
salt that is lost through sweating.
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms
Heat exhaustion is a serious illness and needs
to be treated immediately before a heat stroke
occurs. If you or a coworker experience any of
the following symptoms, cool o immediately
and drink plenty of water.
wDizziness
wLightheadedness
wHeadache
wFeeling weak, fatigued
wEasily Irritated
wClammy and moist skin
wPale or ushed skin
Heat Stroke Symptoms
Heat stroke is a medical emergency that
can become fatal. If anyone experiences the
following symptoms of heat stroke, call 911
immediately.
wHot, dry, red skin (not sweaty)
wDisorientation
wConfusion
wBody temperature greater than 105º F
wConvulsions
wUnconsciousness