It's critical in these few weeks of unrelenting heat that Landscape Contractors keep a close eye on their workers. It's likely that most Landscape Contractors don't even realize that they are legally responsible for heat stroke related illness that occurs on their jobsite. In fact, the field supervisor is responsible for the health of his workers and may even be subject to stiff fines if an incident does occur on the job. For this reason, and for reasons of basic human concern, it's important that LC's be able to recognize the early symptoms of heat stroke.

"A sudden onset of heatstroke is sometimes preceded by headache, vertigo, and fatigue. Sweating is usually but not always decreased, and the skin is hot, flushed, and usually dry." (Drugbase Web source) The problem is, most landscapers are unwilling to admit that they're having a problem and may even respond with irritation if questioned about their well being. That's why it takes a little bit of diplomacy and an attention to subtle changes in performance.

As body temperature increases and pulse quickens, the victim will become confused or angry. If the worker is constantly arguing or bickering, his annoyance may be more than an attitude problem. He may well be on the verge of a collapse and the scornful behavior may just be the steam whistling from the teapot telling you, this guy's done.

I recently witnessed a crew of workers digging a trench in the heat of midday. On the asphalt, the temperature was probably lingering somewhere in the mid-nineties. Suddenly, one of the crew popped a guy right in the jaw. For several moments these two writhed and struggled, falling into the ditch they had been digging, and emerged covered in concrete.

When, to his amusement, the supervisor separated the two individuals, it was fairly clear that the instigator was suffering from heatstroke. He looked dazed and confused and seemed to be swooning in the midday sun, staring dumbly as though he were trying to make out something on the distant horizon. This probably should have been a big hint to the construction foreman. But before long, they were back working on the trench again.

James Lipot has been consulting businesses on issues of public health and safety for over fifteen years. Before you get to the stage of rushing your employees to the hospital, he recommends some simple things you can do to avert a potentially critical situation.

1. Work in shifts. During the summer when the days are longer, allow workers to exert most of their energy in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid exposing workers to the direct sun during midday.

2. Always provide access to cooled water. Frequent rehydration is critical to maintaining the body's cooling system.

3. Give your workers fruit like watermelon and bananas. These will help them to maintain their potassium and electrolyte levels.

4. Take frequent breaks. Heat stroke causes blood to pool in the legs. Workers should be permitted to rest periodically and to sit or lie down as the need may be.

5. Don't apply noxema or greasy creams and ointments to sunburn. These will actually insulate the skin and prevent heat from leaving the body.