THINK ABOUT THIS:
How You Can Beat The Heat

A Heat Safety Episode from CORESafety TV

Welcome to a new episode of Think About This, created for you by CORESafety TV and the National Mining Association (NMA).

Whether you work underground or on the surface, hot conditions are a reality of mining.

That's why high temperatures, physical labor, heavy personal protective equipment (PPE) and long shifts can all place added stress on the body and on the mind. That's also why understanding heat-related illnesses and knowing how to prevent them are important parts of staying safe on the job.

The latest CORESafety video called "Beat the Heat" provides a practical overview of the warning signs of heat illness and the steps miners can take to protect themselves and their coworkers.

One of the key things to know is that heat illness is often preventable. Problems can develop gradually, and the earliest warning signs are sometimes easy to miss. Recognizing those signs early and taking action can make a significant difference.

Take a few minutes now to watch this and learn how to beat the heat —

Want to see this CORESafety TV episode
with Spanish subtitles? Click here

Important Heat Safety Practices

• Drink water regularly throughout your shift
• Avoid excessive caffeine and high-sugar drinks
• Take scheduled breaks in cool areas
• Allow time to adjust to hot working conditions
• Wear appropriate clothing for the environment
• Use cooling equipment when it is available
• Watch for signs of heat stress in your coworkers

Heat can affect judgment, concentration and reaction time before more serious physical symptoms appear. That's why looking out for one another is such an important part of mine safety. A coworker may notice a problem before the affected person realizes something is wrong.

At CORESafety, we believe that every miner deserves the knowledge and tools needed to return home safely at the end of the day. Heat stress awareness is one more way you can strengthen your safety culture and protect your workforce.

Remember — always stay hydrated, use your breaks wisely and look out for each other.