Jobs Experiencing the Most Heat Related Health Issues in The Arklatex

With temperatures soaring at or above 100 degrees forecast for the remainder of the week, and a reminder that we haven't even gotten to August yet, there's real need to consider the heat for lots of workers here in the Arklatex.

Those of us blessed to work in an air conditioned office, left to only complain about the heat, as we dash from that office to those hot leather seats in our cars or trucks at the end of the day, should pause daily to thank those who suffer in this kind of heat to make our lives more comfortable.

From farmers and construction workers, to police and fire, to loggers and utility workers, there are men and women all over who's daily task at this time of the year, along with the actual job at hand, is to remind themselves to hydrate and constantly monitor those around them for possible signs of heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.

Quoting an article from AMI Enviromental:

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), thousands of workers suffer each year from preventable heat-related illnesses

The article goes on to say:

According to OSHA standards, air temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit (F) may increase the heat load on workers to unsafe levels. Workers are at serious risk for dangerous heat-related illnesses if temperatures rise above 100.4 degrees F.

This means that the threat of this heat is real!  Staying hydrated with frequent breaks to cool off is a must.  Of course this also begs another question.  Around our area, just who has the absolute hottest job?

• Welders
• Loggers
• Oilfield workers
• Mechanics
• Roofers
• Utility workers
• Construction workers
• Farmers

Who do you think has the hottest job around?  Our hats off to all those who make a living every day in this heat.  We're jealous of you when it's sunny and 75, but on days like this, not so much.