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             Canadian Union of Postal Workers

 


 

HEALTH & SAFETY

 

 


 

Bulletin no: 2002-2005 (23)                                                                                                          July 17, 2002

 



 

Now that we are experiencing increasing temperatures and humidity, it is important to be wise and exercise caution while working in the heat.

 

Alternating work and rest periods with longer rest periods in a cool, shaded area can help workers avoid heat strain.

 

WORKING STRAIGHT THROUGH IS NOT THE ANSWER!

 

Be aware and learn to detect early signs of heat strain (dehydration, heat cramps, exhaustion).

 

SLOW DOWN

Be sure to replace lost fluids by increasing your intake.

 

Heavy Work is defined by shoveling, sledgehammer work, pushing or pulling heavy loads, etc.

 

Moderate Work is considered to be walking about with moderate lifting and pushing, etc.

 

Light Work is regarded as sitting or standing to control machines, performing hand or arm work, etc.

 


 

The ACGIH suggests less work in high temperatures, as indicated in the following table:


 

PERMISSABLE HEAT EXPOSURE

THRESHOLD LIMIT VALUES

 

Work/Rest                    Light               Moderate               Heavy

Regimen                      Work                 Work                     Work

Continuous Work          30 C/86F        26.7C/80F              25C/77F

75% Work-

25% Rest each hr.        30.6C/87F      28C/82F                 25.9C/78F 

50% Work-

50% Rest each hr.        31.4C/89F      29.4C/85F              27.9C/82

25% Work-

75% Rest each hr.        32.2C/90F      31.1C/88F              30.C/86F

 

If you feel yourself being overcome by heat,

PLAY IT SAFE!

 

EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO REFUSE.

Contact your supervisor and shop steward and inform them that you are invoking article 33, clause 33.13 and that you will be returning to the workplace.

 

USE YOUR COMMON SENSE AND MAKE YOUR HEALTH A PRIORITY!

 

In Solidarity,

Gayle Bossenberry

National Union Representative

Health and Safety

 

 


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