Exposure to excessive heat from ambient environmental conditions during the summer months is a common hazard in most of the Oil and Gas installations in the Gulf.ADGAS Occupational Health Risk Assessment has also identified heat as a major hazard during the summer months.In order to mitigate the adverse health effects of heat exposure,ADGAS implemented a comprehensive management programme, based on a multi-angled approach,which included filed surveys,lab tests and control measures as summarized below. Workplace survey:Walkthrough of the workplace to identify activities with potential for heat exposure along with the availability of controls and employee awareness. Thermal environment monitoring:Determining the Thermal Work Limit by measurement of dry bulb,wet bulb and globe temperature,and air velocity. Hydration testing:Measurement of specific gravity of urine samples from selected outdoor workers (308 out of 500 workers)to ascertain the hydration level in accordance with ADNOC COP guidelines. Control measures:A Multi-tier approach to mitigate the effects of heat exposure through the following: Management involvement:Heat stress campaign with site visits by the top management and provision of water and refreshments. On site arrangements:Rest shelters with provision of drinking water along with tool box talks on heat exposure for the workforce. Employee awareness:HSE leaflets,presentations,awareness booklet,etc.,to enhance the level of knowledge on harmful effects of heat. The above programme resulted in risk reduction for a group of nearly 1000 employees(~59%)of ADGAS workforce.The program has met its objectives as manifested by zero incidents of heat related illnesses in 2013 as compared to eight cases in 2012.The programme has also helped to provide information on the baseline heat exposure,and possible immediate and future control measures.
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