Safe Solutions

Ed, a young roof mechanic, had worked for AM & P Roofing for almost two years and earned a reputation as a dependable worker.

One early May morning, he and his fellow roofing workers were sent to a job site at a small shopping complex to install a built-up roof system.

The crew set up the proper fall-protection systems, which included warning lines stationed at least 6 feet from the roof edge, and wore appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including sturdy work boots, long pants with no cuffs, long-sleeved shirts and protective eyewear.

The day was sunny and dry, and Joe, the foreman, reminded the workers to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. A water cooler and disposable cups were provided on the roof, but Ed didn't pay attention because he wasn't thirsty.

At noon, the workers found some shade in a park across the street from the job site and ate their lunches. Ed, who was not wearing a hat, chose to remain in the sun. He was tired and not hungry. Feeling lightheaded, he only sipped a can of soda.

After about 45 minutes, the crew returned to the job site. The afternoon sun blazed as the crew installed the new roof system. Ed continued to feel lightheaded but didn't tell anyone. He worked for a few more minutes and then suddenly collapsed on the deck.

Joe rushed over and tried to talk to him. Ed mumbled incoherently. Joe dialed 911 on his cell phone and requested emergency help. Joe and the other workers made Ed as comfortable as possible while they waited for an ambulance.

Joe called AM & P Roofing's owner, Jerry, and told him about the situation. One of the other workers mentioned he'd seen Ed eating his lunch in the sun and Ed hadn't been drinking much water.

When the ambulance arrived, Joe explained Ed's symptoms to the emergency medical team. They carefully got Ed off the roof and drove to the hospital.

Joe met Jerry at the hospital, and they met with Ed's doctor, who explained that Ed's symptoms—which included headache, decreased blood pressure and delirium—resulted from dehydration.

According to the doctor, symptoms of dehydration typically become noticeable after about 2 percent of a person's normal water volume has been lost. The first symptoms are thirst and possibly loss of appetite. The doctor said Ed had suffered only moderate dehydration.

Even though Ed had not been thirsty, the doctor explained Ed should have been drinking water. Thirst is not a reliable sign that a person requires fluids. Also, if a person is sweating, he should drink water frequently.

In addition, it had been bright outside, and without a hat to protect him, Ed had suffered from heat exhaustion.

The doctor told Jerry and Joe that Ed would have to remain at the hospital overnight for observation and would need another day's rest before he returned to work.

The next morning, before any of the AM & P Roofing crews went to their job sites, Jerry made sure everyone understood the importance of staying hydrated by drinking water during the day. Water, he told them, was a healthier choice than sodas or sports drinks. The balance of electrolytes sports drinks provide might not match a person's replacement needs.

Also, he reminded them that a roof's temperature often is significantly higher than other areas. This especially is true when applying hot asphalt.

Jerry instructed his workers to ensure there were water coolers with disposable cups available at each job site. He also reminded them to wear hats to ward off the sun's rays. He said if they feel lethargic or ill, they should take a break and sit in the shade for a few minutes. Besides the risk of becoming physically ill, fatigue might cause a worker to forget to use fall protection or wear PPE, which could result in a serious accident.

Back in his office, Jerry switched on his radio and began to work. The weatherman was predicting a long, hot summer, and Jerry was determined to keep his crew healthy and strong with no accidents.

Peter Greenbaum is NRCA's director of education and training media.