Heat stress disorders. Old problems, new implications.

Occupational health nurses must always be aware of changing job tasks that create new classes of employees at risk for developing heat stress disorders. Examples include chemical handlers or asbestos containment specialists who must wear non-permeable protective clothing. Heat induced occupational illnesses and injuries, and reduced productivity occur in situations in which the total heat load (environment plus metabolic heat) exceeds the capacities of the body to maintain normal body functions without strain. Health screening should include evaluation of an employee's age, sex, body size, level of fitness, chronic diseases, use of medications, drugs and alcohol, and ability to acclimate. Prevention of heat stress disorders is a team effort. The occupational health nurse, plant engineer, safety/industrial hygienist, and the employee all impact on the success of any heat stress disorder prevention program. Without cooperation, the possibility for harm exists.