@article{ref1,
title="Outcomes of a heat stress awareness program on heat-related illness in municipal outdoor workers",
journal="Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine",
year="2019",
author="McCarthy, Ronda B. and Shofer, Frances S. and Green-McKenzie, Judith",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="INTRODUCTION: Heat stress is an occupational hazard. Exposed workers may suffer heat-related illness, disease exacerbation, increased injuries, and reduced productivity. Response strategies include mitigation policies and preparedness. <br><br>METHODS: Frequency of heat-related illness and workers' compensation costs before and after implementation of a voluntary Heat Stress Awareness Program were evaluated retrospectively in outdoor workers from 2009 to 2017. The program consisted of training, acclimatization, and medical monitoring as outlined in NIOSH's Criteria for a Recommended Standard: Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments. <br><br>RESULTS: Of the 604 workers assessed, those with two or more risk factors reported a heat-related illness at greater frequency, which decreased after program implementation. Median workers' compensation costs decreased by 50%. <br><br>DISCUSSION: Heat-related illness prevention programs can be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of these occupational injuries as well as associated costs.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1076-2752",
doi="10.1097/JOM.0000000000001639",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/JOM.0000000000001639"
}