Masonry Magazine July 2011 Page. 8
FOR THE RECORD
Jennifer Morrell
Editor
jmorrell@lionhrtpub.com
Taking the Heat
Here in the South, we are experiencing our normal, 90-degree-plus temperatures. Summer officially kicked off this week, and heat and humidity are, once again, our way of life. But for many of you around the country, record-setting heat has plagued your already-sweltering days on the jobsites. It sounds like a no-brainer, but staying cool and hydrated isn't only a way to be more comfortable; it's a way to stay alive.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) refers to these almost unbearable high-temperature environments as "heat stress" situations. The administration addressed heat stress in its Protecting Workers from Heat Illness document.
The document says that factors contributing to heat stress can include high temperatures and humidity; direct sun or heat; limited air movement; physical exertion; poor physical condition; some medicines, insufficient hydration; and an inadequate tolerance for hot workplaces.
You should be aware of the major factors that can lead to heat stress, especially dehydration. Hydration is a "continuous process for the body and should be done consistently and continuously throughout the day.
Remember that alcohol can dehydrate you, and food does not equal water (even fruits). Sodas and juices also do not equal water. Only water can do the job of replenishing lost moisture from your body.
Symptoms
Heat exhaustion symptoms include headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting, along with muscle cramps or pain; paleness, weakness and moist skin; mood changes such as irritability or confusion; and upset stomach or vomiting.
Heat stroke symptoms include flushed, dry, hot skin with no sweating; mental confusion, dizziness or loss of consciousness, and seizures or convulsions.
Preventing heat stress begins with knowing the signs/symptoms of heat-related illnesses, and monitoring yourself and your coworkers. Block or stay out of direct sunlight or other heat sources, use cooling fans or air-conditioning, and rest regularly. To address a heat-related illness, OSHA says to call 911 (or your local emergency number) at once, and then move the worker to a cool, shaded area. Loosen or remove heavy clothing, provide cool drinking water, and fan and mist the person with water.
You can learn more about surviving the heat on the jobsite this summer by visiting www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3154.pdf. Stay cool and hydrated, and enjoy your summer! IMAS
COMING IN AUGUST 2011
Be sure to catch the August 2011 issue of Masonry, which will feature articles covering current trends and examining industry issues, including:
MAST CLIMBERS
The world of mast climbers is ever- changing and evolving. Masonry talks to one company about current trends in this area.
MANUFACTURED STONE
An industry expert explains how manufactured stone is being used commercially on interior projects.
RENTALS
The American Rental Association will comment on equipment rental as it affects masonry construction.
For advertising information, contact
Marvin Diamond
770.431.0867, ext. 208
Toll-free: 888.303.5639
E-mail: marvin@lionhtpub.com
MASONRY
The Voice of the Masonry Industry
MASONRY Magazine
Official Publication of the
Mason Contractors Association of America and the
Canadian Masonry Contractors Association
MASON CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
President Mackie Bounds
Vice President John Smith Jr.
Secretary Mark Kemp
Treasurer Mike Sutter
Regional Vice Presidents
Robert V. Barnes, Jr. Richard Porter
Ron Bernett Tim Spiker
Edwin Davenport Mike Sutter
Douglas Nichols Roy Swindal
Executive Director Jeff Buckiewicz
EXECUTIVE STAFF
Government Affairs Representatives The Kellen Group
Director of Certification and Education Sharyl Toynton
Director of Membership Bob Birthel
Director of Marketing and Timothy W. O'Toole
Information Technology
Administrative Assistant Ann Townsell
Consultant Rashod Johnson
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
David Jollay (Jollay Masonry Contractors), John Chrysler (MJA), John Melanc (PCA), David Hill (Pettit Construction Co.), John J. Smith (John J. Smith Masonry Co.), Brian Grant (Grant/Jack's Masonry), Jerry Painter (Painter Masonry, Inc.), Doug Nichols (Doug Nichols Enterprises), G. Alan Griffin (Griffin Contract Inc.), Tom Daniel (GBC Concrete and Masonry Construction, Inc.)
Executive Office
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Algonquin, IL 60102
Phone: 224.678.9709 or 800.536.2225
Fax: 224.678.9714
MCAA
MASONRY is the official publication of the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and the Canadian Masonry Contractors Association (CMCA). The magazine acts as a sounding board without approving, disapproving or guaranteeing the validity or accuracy of any data, claim or opinion appearing under a byline or obtained or quoted from an acknowledged source. Opinions expressed by officers do not necessarily reflect the official views of MCAA or CMCA. The appearance of advertising or new product information doesn't constitute an endorsement by MCAA or CMCA of product featured.
MASONRY ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL OFFICE
Send all advertising and editorial submissions for Masonry to:
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Publisher John Llewellyn jllewellyn@lionhrtpub.com
Editor Jennifer Morrell jmorrell@lionhrtpub.com
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The Voice of the Masonry Industry