RSG-HS-OCH-0003 - Heat Stress Management

Health and Safety Management
Heat Stress Management
FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE
RSG-HS-OCH-0003 | Revision 00 | 30 Mar 2023

Revision History
Rev. Date Details of Revision Prepared By Reviewed By 1st Approver 2nd Approver
Superseded previous Lijo Abraham/

Simon Horner Brian Maynard Brian Spraker
versions of TRSDC and Muhammad Zafar
AMAALA documents.
00 30-Mar-2023
This is the initial
version of RSG level
document
RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 2
1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE...........................................................................................................................................................................6

1.1 Purpose .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6
1.2 Scope ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
2 REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................................................................................................6
2.1 General .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6
3 EXECUTION OF REQUIREMENTS .........................................................................................................................................................6

3.1 Responsibilities ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
3.2 Heat Stress Information....................................................................................................................................................................... 7
3.3 RSG Heat Stress Methodologies ......................................................................................................................................................... 9
3.4 Work/Rest Regiment Guidance ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
3.5 Heat Stress Control............................................................................................................................................................................. 13
3.6 Extreme Heat Environments ............................................................................................................................................................. 14
3.7 Heat Disorders Symptoms and Guidance ........................................................................................................................................ 14
3.8 Heat Stress Management Plan.......................................................................................................................................................... 15
3.9 Training ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 16
4 REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................................................................................17
4.1 Resources ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 17
4.2 Forms and Template .......................................................................................................................................................................... 17
4.3 Supporting Documents ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17
5 APPENDICES .......................................................................................................................................................................................17

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Acronyms and Abbreviations
Acronym/Abbreviation Expansion
HI Heat Index
H&S Health and Safety
RSG Red Sea Global
WBGT Wet Bulb Globe Temperature
Definitions
Term Definition
Is the gradual adapting of the human body to cope with higher heat exposure.
Acclimatization occurs over a period of approximately 2 weeks but may be lost within 1 week
Acclimatization
of removal of the heat exposure. There can be a noticeable decrease in acclimatization over a
weekend off work.
Paring of co-workers or team members for the purpose of health protection and looking out
Buddy System
for one another
Contractors Includes construction contractors, consultants, facility service providers, operators subs etc.
The body doesn't have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions.
If you don't replace lost fluids, you will get dehydrated. Common causes of dehydration
include vigorous exercise, especially in hot weather; intense diarrhea; vomiting; fever or
excessive sweating. Not drinking enough water during exercise or in hot weather even if
you're not exercising also may cause dehydration. Anyone may become dehydrated, but
young children, older adults and people with chronic illnesses are most at risk. You can usually
reverse mild to moderate dehydration by drinking more fluids, but severe dehydration needs
immediate medical treatment. The safest approach is preventing dehydration in the first
place. Keep an eye on how much fluid you lose during hot weather, illness or exercise, and
drink enough liquids to replace what you've lost.
A urine color chart is a simple tool you can use to assess if you are drinking enough fluids
Dehydration throughout day to stay hydrated
There are painful muscle cramps of the limbs and/or abdomen, muscle twitching, tingling, or
Heat Cramp pins and needles in the hands and feet. The person may experience tiredness and nausea. The
symptoms may be due to a slat imbalance
Heat exhaustion may take many days to develop and be characterized by a progressive
Heat Exhaustion decline in work performance, lack of appetite, headache, cold, clammy, pale skin, rapid, week
pulse, nausea, and vomiting. The person may collapse.
An index that combines air temperature and relative humidity to determine the human
Heat Index (HI or Humiture or
perceived equivalent temperature – how hot it feels. The result is also known as the “felt air
Humidex
temperature”, “Real Feel”, or “apparent temperature”.

Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 4
Often referred to as “prickly heat”, this skin rash is caused by excess sweating or the skin
Heat Rash
being wet with sweat. The rash usually disappears with acclimatization or removal from heat.
The general term that describes a variety of symptoms produced when the human body is
exposed to a combination of heat and work that interferes with the body’s ability to dissipate
Heat Stress
the heat energy. Heat stress is a function of total heat load and includes the level of activity
and environmental conditions.
This is a serious, life threatening medical condition. The person has a temperature in excess of
40 °C, sweating often stops, the skin is hot, pulse is rapid, there may be dizziness, weakness,
Heat Stroke
headache, nausea, and visual disturbances. The person may be aggressive and irrational and
convulsing. Urgent medical attention must be sought.
Heat related fainting caused by prolonged standing or sudden rising from a sitting or lying
Heat Syncope (Fainting) position; can include pooling of blood in the leg veins thus decreasing blood circulation to the
heart and brain.
Examples include intense arm and trunk work; carrying heavy material; shoveling;
Heavy work sledgehammer work; sawing, planning, or chiseling hard word; hand mowing; digging;
jogging or running.
System used in industry to minimize or eliminate exposure to hazards. The hierarchy consists
Hierarchy of Controls of: Elimination; Substitution; Engineering Controls; Administrative Controls; Personal
Protective Equipment
Examples include: sustained hand and arm work (hammering in nails, filling); arm and leg
work (off-road operation of lorries, tractors, or field execution equipment); arm and trunk
Moderate Work work (work with pneumatic hammer, tractor assembly, plastering, intermittent handling of
moderately heavy material, weeding, hoeing); pushing or pulling light weight carts or
wheelbarrows; walking quickly etc.
Vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) occurs causing a great deal of blood to the skin
resulting in less blood being supplied to the active muscles. Strength declines and the onset of
fatigue can occur earlier than expected. This condition leads to reduced physical performance
Muscle Fatigue
which may result in an increase in accident rates. Associated factors are sweaty, slippy palms,
dizziness, and fogging of safety glasses.
Protective clothing, helmets, goggles, or other garments or equipment designed to protect

the wearer's body from injury or infection. The hazards addressed by protective equipment
Personal Protective Equipment
include physical, electrical, heat, chemicals, biohazards, and airborne particulate matter.
(PPE)
Protective equipment may be worn for job-related occupational safety and health purposes, as
well as for sports and other recreational activities.
Relative humidity is ratio of quality of water vapor present in the air to the quantity that would
Relative Humidity
saturate it at any specific temperature.
The process of hazard identification, assessment of the risk or potential impact and
identification of the controls required to manage the risk to an acceptable level to ensure the
Risk Assessment
health and safety of those affected by the activity and the protection of the environment from
harm.

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1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

1.1 Purpose
1.1.1 This procedure defines the requirements for the management of work in severe hot environment and preventing heat illness,
recognition of the symptoms and controls to be implemented to reduce the effects of heat related illness such as heat stroke,
heat exhaustion, heat cramp, heat rashes, heat fatigue and dehydration among the workers.
1.2 Scope
1.2.1 This procedure applies to work activities and employees under the control of RSG, Contractors and subcontractors.
2 REQUIREMENTS
2.1 General
2.1.1 Developing Heat Stress management plan and program.
2.1.2 Ensure compliance with regulatory requirement and mid-day break rule.
2.1.3 Heat stress monitoring and management strategies.
2.1.4 Effective implementation of Heat Stress Plan/Process.
2.1.5 Monitor employees and contractor’s compliance to the Heath Stress management Plan.
2.1.6 Emergency plan and arrangements to deal with heat related illnesses.
3 EXECUTION OF REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Responsibilities
3.1.1 RSG Senior Management
3.1.1.1 The GCEO or their designees are responsible for ensuring implementation and assigning Health and Safety accountabilities
as defined by this procedure, as well as ensuring the availability of resources to enable the successful implementation of
the requirements of this procedure.
3.1.2 RSG Construction/Operations Directors/Leads
3.1.2.1 Construction/Operations Directors or Leads are responsible for ensuring compliance with this procedure.
3.1.2.2 Ensure Contractors are developed Heat stress management plan in line with RSG requirements and implementation.
3.1.3 RSG Construction/Operations Managers
3.1.3.1 Ensure the implementation of heat stress plan to avoid heat related illnesses; this will include, but not be limited to,
conducting an assessment of tasks in order to identify possible work practices or environments that have the potential to
cause heat stress.
3.1.4 RSG H&S Directors and Representatives
3.1.4.1 Review Contractor’s Heat Stress management plan and Emergency response arrangements.
3.1.4.2 Monitor RSG and Contractors compliance in accordance with the requirement of this procedure.
3.1.4.3 Perform inspection and audits to verify compliance
3.1.4.4 Necessary advice and awareness on Heat stress process and regulatory compliance
3.1.5 All First Aiders and Healthcare Professionals
3.1.5.1 Healthcare professionals/ Nurses will monitor employee’s health assessment as required and report to the H&S
Representative all cases that involve, or are suspected of involving, occupational heat related illnesses.
3.1.5.2 Administer first aid treatment as per the training received.
3.1.6 All other employees
3.1.6.1 Follow instructions and training for controlling heat stress.
3.1.6.2 Be alert to symptoms in own self and in others.
3.1.6.3 People must not rest in unauthorized areas, such as under the shade of parked vehicles, unfinished structures, material
storage areas or other unsafe locations.
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3.1.6.4 Prior to moving a parked vehicle, drivers/operators must perform a complete 360°walk around check to ensure no one is
resting under or near the equipment.
3.1.6.5 Avoid consumption of excessive caffeine and energy drinks.
3.1.6.6 Find out whether any prescription medications required to be taken can increase heat stress.
3.1.6.7 Get adequate rest and sleep.
3.1.6.8 Take regular rest brakes and follow flagging system.
3.1.6.9 Drink water regularly to maintain ﬂuid levels and avoid dehydration.
3.1.7 Contractors Project Manager
3.1.7.1 The Contractor shall develop site-specific heat stress management plan in line with this procedure.
3.1.7.2 Shall ensure compliance with RSG and local regulatory requirements.
3.1.7.3 Ensure effective implementation of heat stress management program and monitor employees and subcontractors.
3.1.7.4 Provide adequate resources and calibrated devices to measure HI/WBGT reading and communication.
3.1.7.5 Ensure training and awareness on Heat stress management.
3.1.7.6 Provision of safe and suitable rest areas and temporary shaded areas, cooling fans, supply of cool drinking water,
transportation arrangements and health assessment facilities.
3.1.7.7 Establish Emergency Response arrangements to deal with Heat related illness and emergencies.
3.2 Heat Stress Information

3.2.1 General
3.2.1.1 Outdoor operational activities conducted in hot, humid weather especially those that require workers to wear semi-
permeable or impermeable protective clothing, are likely to cause heat stress among exposed workers. The potential severe
heat stress impacts on people will always be considered when assessing the hazards of heat stress on the body.
Management of the requirements to protect employees from heat stress. Heat stress refers to the effect of heat, from any
source, on the organs of the body and the person. The stresses of heat on the body manifest themselves in 5 common
ailments:
• Heat exhaustion
• Heat cramps
• Heat stroke
• Heat syncope (fainting)
• Heat rash
3.2.1.2 Heat stress, obviously, can occur when working in hot conditions. But heat stress can also occur when working strenuously
or when wearing less breathable or encapsulating clothing in milder conditions. Typical examples include:
• Working outside in the full sun in the summer
• Working in hot confined spaces such as process equipment
• Working near hot process equipment (boiler or furnace)
• Working in deep excavations or confined spaces
• Working with, on or beside metal or other reflective materials in the full sun etc.
3.2.2 Factors and Conditions
3.2.2.1 Environmental Heat and Metabolic Heat
Workers typically are exposure to two forms of heat stress:
• Environmental heat from the air temperature, sun exposure, hot process equipment, humid and other working
conditions.
• Internal metabolic heat from physical exertion.
3.2.2.2 When we discuss heat stress, we are really discussing a combination of contributions from both environmental and
metabolic heat stresses.
3.2.2.3 Wind, Humidly, Sun
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Measuring just air temperature provides limited usefulness. Additional information about humid, wind speed, exposure to
full effects of the sun, working close to hot objects, the breathability of work clothing, and the physical exertion needed to
do the task provide a much more accurate picture of the level of heat stress.
3.2.2.4 Cooling
Perspiration (sweating) is the body’s mechanism for cooling down. Without adequate hydration, the body will not sweat,
and heat related illnesses become far more likely.
Note: Drinking water frequently is the best defenses against heat stress.
• Once consumed, it takes the body about an hour to absorb and begin using 1 liter of water. For this reason, it is
better to drink small amounts of water several times an hour rather than drink larger amounts more infrequently.
About one cup (250 milliliters) every 15 minutes will assure that the body always has a supply of water to use.
• If the body is not fully hydrated right at the start of the day, once work starts, the body may be constantly trying
to recover but can’t fully until it has absorbed enough water. It may take hours for the proper balance between
work, perspiration and hydration to be achieved.
• You cannot rely on thirst. By the time you “feel’ thirsty, your body is likely already significantly dehydrated. You
won’t feel thirsty until your body is out of water. And, since it takes an hour or more for your body to absorb
enough water to get back in balance, waiting until you get thirsty is a very poor strategy.
3.2.2.5 Acclimatization
The second-best defense against heat stress is acclimatization. It takes a week or two to become acclimatized. Those who
leave the project for a week and go to cooler climates, they will lose their acclimatization in about a week.
Note: No one is acclimatized during the first few days of a heat wave.
3.2.2.6 Un-acclimatized Workers
Slowly introduce un-acclimatized workers to hot working conditions. On the first day, start with about 20% of the normal
work (metabolic) demand. Add another 20% each day until you reach the expected work demands in about a week.
3.2.2.7 Air Movement
Increasing air movement (using fans) is a good work control if air temperature is less than skin temperature (35 °C). When
air temperature is higher than skin temperature, the increased air movement tends to add to heat stress. A good rule of
thumb is a little air movement is almost always a good thing. But as it gets hotter, move the air more slowly; use fewer fans
or less powerful fans or do not point the fans directly at the workers.
3.2.2.8 Clothing
Whenever safely possible, wear work clothes made of a single layer of cotton or other highly breathable fabrics. Light colors
are better than dark colors. The free movement of cool, dry air over the skin’s surface maximizes body heat removal.
Evaporation of sweat from the skin is the best heat removal mechanism. Impermeable, thermally insulating as well as
encapsulating clothing or PPE severely restrict heat removal and can produce excessive heat strain even when ambient
conditions are considered cool.
3.2.2.9 Human Factors
There are certain physical conditions that can reduce the body's natural ability to withstand high and low temperatures:
• Weight: Workers who are overweight are less efficient at losing heat.
• Poor physical conditions: Being physically fit aids your ability to cope with the increased demands that heat and
cold places on your body.
• Previous heat illnesses: Workers are more sensitive to heat if they have experienced a previous heat - related
illnesses.
• Age: As the body ages, its sweat glands become less efficient. Workers over 40 years may have trouble with hot
and cold environments. Acclimatization to the heat and physical fitness can offset some age-related problems.
• Heart disease or high blood pressure: In order to pump blood to the skin and cool the body, the heart rate
increases. This can cause stress on the heart.
• Recent illness: Workers with recent illnesses involving diarrhea, vomiting, or fever have an increased risk of
dehydration and heat stress because their bodies have lost salt and water.
• Alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption during the previous 24 hours leads to dehydration and increased risk
to heat stress.
• Medication: Certain drugs may cause heat intolerance by reducing sweating or increasing urination. Workers who
work in a hot environment shall consult their physician.
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• Lack of acclimatization: When exposed to heat for a few days, the body will adapt and become more efficient in
dealing with raised environmental temperature. This process is called acclimatization. Acclimatization usually
takes six to seven days. Benefits include:
o Lower pulse rate and more stable blood pressure
o More efficient sweating (causing better evaporative cooling)
o Improved ability to maintain normal body temperatures
3.3 RSG Heat Stress Methodologies

RSG has the following heat stress methodologies available: Heat Index (HI) Temperature and Wet Bulb Globe Temperature
(WBGT). RSG Contractors shall follow the heat stress methodology of the destination where they perform the activities.
3.3.1 Humidex/Heat Index Method
3.3.1.1 Humidex: a method of quantifying human discomfort due to excessive heat and humidity
3.3.1.2 Heat Index value combines air temperature and relative humidity (see Heat Index Table). This method considers the relative
humidity and air temperature. It is important to consider both factors when calculating heat stress on the body because
the body’s sweat mechanism operates with reduced efficiency in higher humidity environments.
3.3.1.3 The effects of humidity are also why many people can tolerate “dry” heat better than humid, swampy conditions even if the
air temperature is the same. For these reasons, the heat index is a better tool for making decisions on the impacts of heat
stress than temperature alone.
3.3.1.4 The Heat Index does not consider radiant heat loads such as direct sun light, hot machinery, or reflective surfaces.
3.3.1.5 For example, on a hot day it feels hotter in the direct sun than it does in an open shady area or if a cloud passes over. The
air temperature is the same but in the direct sun you feel the effect of the sun’s radiant energy. Hot or shiny surfaces or
infrared light sources will similarly add to a worker’s heat stress levels.
3.3.1.6 Heat Index Table:
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3.3.1.7 Exposure category and possible heat syndrome
Category Heat Index Scale Heat Syndrome
Extreme Danger >54˚C Very high risk for Heat Stroke.
Danger 51 - 54 ˚C Heat stroke or sunstroke is likely.
Heat cramps, or heat exhaustion is likely, heat stroke is possible with prolonged
Extreme Caution 41 - 50 ˚C exposure and physical activity.
Heat cramps, or heat exhaustion is likely, heat stroke is possible with prolonged
Extra Caution 33 - 40 ˚C exposure and physical activity.
Fatigue, sun burns, dehydration possible with prolonged exposure and physical activity.
Caution < 32 ˚C Continued visual monitoring of workers in direct sun and during heavy work.
3.3.1.8 Heat Index Flag system and Heat Index Scale
Work Rest/Regimen
Work Rest/Regimen Moderate Work
RSG HI Flagging Heavy work
Exposure Category Heat Index Scale
Code
Water Intake Per Water Intake Per
Work/ Rest Cycle Work/ Rest Cycle
Hour Hour
Extreme Danger >54˚C Stop all work
Danger 51 - 54 ˚C 30/30 Minutes 1000 ml Stop all Heavy work activities.
40/20 30/30
Extreme Caution 41 - 50 ˚C 1000 ml 1000 ml
Minutes Minutes
60/15 40/20
Caution 33 - 40 ˚C 750 ml 1000 ml
Minutes Minutes
No restrictions, however, fatigue possible with prolonged exposure and

Normal < 32 ˚C physical activity. Continued visual monitoring of workers and adequate
breaks in direct sun and during heavy work.
3.3.2 Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) methodology:
3.3.2.1 When calculating Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) methodology to determine the heat stress actions and control
measures. WBGT value combines air temperature, humidity, wind speed and infrared radiation (sunlight). It is important to
consider these factors when calculating heat stress on the body because the body’s sweat mechanism operates with
reduced efficiency in higher humidity environments.
3.3.2.2 Establishing WBGT guidelines that dictate modifications in activity (work/rest ratios, hydration breaks, equipment worn,
length of practice) at given WBGT temperatures play a huge factor in helping to prevent heat stress.
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3.3.2.3 WBGT- Table
Light Work Moderate Work Heavy Work
Heat Risk Category WBGT Water Water

Work / Water Intake
Work / Rest Intake Work / Rest Intake
Rest (ml/hr)
(ml/hr) (ml/hr)
Unacclimated 25.5-26.5 50/10 min 500 40/20 min 750 30/30 min 750
Very Low
Continuous continuous
Acclimated 25.5-26.5 500 750 50/10 min 750
work work
Low
Continuous
Acclimated 26.6-29.5 500 50/10 min 750 40/20 min 1000
work
Moderate
Continuous
work
Unacclimated 31.1-32.2 20/40 min 750 10/50 min 750 Avoid work 1000
High
Continuous
work
Unacclimated >32.2 10/50 min 1000 avoid work 1000 Avoid work 1000
Extreme
Acclimated >32.2 50/10 min 1000 20/40 min 1000 10/50 min 1000
3.3.2.4 WBGT Flag Code system, Exposure category and possible Heat syndrome
Danger Category / Flag Color Flag Color WBGT Heat Syndrome
Very few restrictions. Fatigue, sun burns, dehydration possible with

prolonged exposure and physical activity. Continued visual monitoring
CAT 1 – VERY LOW 25.5-26.5
of workers in direct sun and during heavy work. Follow work/rest
regimens and water intake.
Heat cramps is possible with prolonged exposure and physical activity.

CAT 2 - LOW 26.6-29.5
Follow work/rest regimens and water intake.
Heat cramps, Heat Syncope or Heat Exhaustion is likely, heat stroke is

CAT 3 - MODERATE 29.6-31.0 possible with prolonged exposure and physical activity. Follow
work/rest regimens and water intake.
Heat stroke or sunstroke is likely. Follow work/rest regimens and water

CAT 4 - HIGH 31.1-32.2
intake. Avoid work for unacclimated heavy work.
Very high risk for heat stroke. Follow work/rest regimens and water
CAT 5 - EXTREME >32.2
intake. Avoid work for moderate and heavy work.
Note: The effects of Heat Stress may vary with physiological factors such as age, health, and body characteristics.
Medical monitoring is strongly advised.
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3.4 Work/Rest Regiment Guidance

3.4.1 The hotter it gets, the longer it takes a body to shed its excess heat. The Work Rest/Regimen Guide is intended to provide
guidance on the amount of time it will take for an average acclimated worker wearing cotton work clothes to recover (shed
built up heat) after performing physically demanding work in hot environments.
3.4.2 A body that has built up a lot of heat (core body temperature) due to work in a hot environment or has performed strenuous
activities (high metabolic workload) must recover to stay in balance. The fact is a body does not shed excess heat quickly. Rest
time in a cooler, air conditioned, or shady area must be provided for a body to recover.
Note: The work/rest regiment guidance is a tool, not mandatory, as it is subject to some judgement.
3.4.3 Below table as a guide to determine worker work rate categories for activities. Work rate categories shall be included in the
risk assessment/method statement.
Work Rate
Example Motions Example Tasks
Category
Light  Sitting with light manual work with hands and  Using small bench tools or small power tools
arms  Inspecting and sorting tools and equipment
 Driving  Assembling small parts
 Standing with some light arm work and  Driving vehicle on roads
occasional walking
 Nailing
 Casual walking (2 miles per hour)
 Lifting 10 pounds fewer than eight times per
minute, or 25 pounds less than four times per
minute
Moderate  Sustained moderate hand and arm work  Bending, squatting
 Moderate arm and leg work  Painting with a brush
 Moderate arm and trunk work  Pushing or pulling lightweight carts or
 Moderate pushing and pulling wheelbarrows
 Walking at a moderate speed  Off road operation of trucks, tractors or

construction equipment
 Lifting 10 pounds 10 times per minute, or 25
pounds six times per minute  Operating an air hammer
 Erecting scaffolding components
Heavy  Intense arm and trunk work  Transferring heavy materials, shoveling
 Carrying, shoveling, manual sawing  Sledgehammer work
 Pushing or pulling heavy loads  Digging
 Walking at a fast pace (4 miles per hour)  Concrete block laying
 Lifting 10 pounds 14 times per minute, or 25  Pushing or pulling loaded hand carts or
pounds 10 times per minute wheelbarrows
 Climbing stairs, ramps, ladders, roof work
 Concrete pouring/screeding/troweling
 Steel fixing
3.4.4 Clothing Adjustment Factors (CAF):
3.4.4.1 The below recommended ACGIH Clothing Adjustment Factors (CAF) shall be considered for application to the WBGT
readings.
Clothing Worn CAF

Work clothes (long sleeves and pants). Examples: Standard cotton shirt/pants 0
Coveralls (w/ only underwear underneath). Examples: Cotton or light polyester material 0
Double-layer woven clothing 3
SMS Polypropylene Coveralls 0.5
Polyolefin coveralls. Examples: Micro-porous fabric (e.g. Tyvek) 1
Limited-use vapor-barrier coveralls. Examples: Encapsulating suits, whole-body chemical protective
11
suites, firefighter turn-out gear
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3.5 Heat Stress Control

3.5.1 General Information
3.5.1.1 There is not one control strategy that will work in every situation. The H&S Representative must work with
project/construction management to determine the best set of heat stress control measures and advise as per the
requirement of this procedure.
3.5.2 Effective Control Measures
3.5.2.1 In almost all circumstances the most effective control measures are:
• Whenever safely possible, dress for the heat.
• Train employees on the hazards of heat stress, control measures and other topics listed in the training section
below.
• Provide ample cool, clean drinking water at the work location. Cool, clean drinking water is much more effective
at preventing heat stress than drinks containing a lot of sugars, caffeine, or electrolytes.
• Identify a cooler, air conditioned or shady area where workers can occasionally take breaks, get out of the sun,
and recover from the effects of the heat.
• Ensure your employees resting cycle implemented and ensure drink a healthy amount of water before starting
work.
• Use acclimatized workers or ease un-acclimatized workers into the expected routine over the course of a week.
3.5.3 Additional Control Measurers
3.5.3.1 Additional strategies for your consideration to control or minimize the effects of working in heat include the following:
• Obtain long-range weather forecasts and regularly update the forecasts to provide the maximum possible
warning period of inclement weather conditions.
• Contractor to provide reliable source for the Heat Index in the area where work is to be performed.
• RSG weather station will give reliable source of Heat Index/WBGT readings as an additional monitoring measure.
• Consider earlier starting and finishing times to avoid the hottest part of the day. Or work at night.
• Program heavy, physical work for the early or cooler times of the day.
• Identify hotspots or areas of work to be avoided during extreme heat.
• Reprogram work in hotspots to another time of the day or to another day.
• Hold toolbox meetings, training programs, and H&S meetings in cool areas or air-conditioned areas at the hottest
part of the day.
• Implement a Work/Rest Regiment, the metabolic workloads the activities require, your judgment and using the
guidance provided in this procedure.
• Alternate work crews to provide rest periods.
• Provide regular rest periods at intervals appropriate to the work conditions in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned
environments.
• You may make electrolyte replacement drinks available at the work location. But they must be available in addition
to cool, clean drinking water and cannot be the primary source of hydration. A ratio of 4 times more water (even
flavored water) to electrolyte replacement fluids is a good rule of thumb.
Note: Employees should be educated that the sole use of electrolyte drinks is not the best way to combat the
effects of heat stress and under extreme circumstance can result in an electrolyte imbalance, too many
electrolytes. Your body handles heat best if electrolytes are in proper balance, neither too few not too many. Salt
tablets are not recommended.
• Consider engineering controls to prevent heat stress, such as increasing air movement, trailer mounted air
conditioning systems, and shielding sources of radiant heat or insulating hot areas.
• Mechanize the task or the parts of the task that require the most physical exertion.
• Review the potential impacts of protective clothing
• Provide regular rest periods in cool shady areas and strictly adhere to schedule appropriate to the work conditions
and in cool/shaded or air-conditioned environments.
• Reduce heat source (such as install shaded areas, cooling fans, barrier wall or insulation).
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• Change working hours to avoid peak heat load periods.
• Fans can be equipped with integrated misters (water atomizers) to provide additional cooling in low humidity
environments.
• Provide additional personal protective equipment (PPE). Items of PPE that may be of benefit are:
• A hat to protect face, neck, and ears.
Note: Where practicable, hard hats can be fitted with broad brims and neck flaps.
o Sunscreens should be selected in accordance with the skin type and working conditions of the user. In
general, sunscreens should be 30+ SPF broad-spectrum water-resistant types.
o Eye protection should be provided using glasses that provide adequate UV and impact protection. Avoid
the use of yellow tinted lenses.
Note: PPE will be used as a control measure only where other measures are impracticable or inadequate.
3.6 Extreme Heat Environments

3.6.1 If you need to perform work in extreme heat environments, contact RSG H&S Team before starting with work. They can help
to plan the work. Most extreme heat environments will be in process areas, indoors or in confined spaces; but there may be
exceptions. For example, extreme heat environments include:
• Areas where the HI is above 54 °C. OR Areas where the WBGT is above 32 °C
• Inside a confined space containing an extreme heat source or a heat source that we will introduce to the space, or
(an extreme heat source generally has a surface too hot to touch with your bare skin).
• Near machinery or process equipment that is extremely hot or contain extreme heat sources such as a furnace or
boiler, or Work in environments where you are considering the use of cooling vests or other wearable cooling
devices or any other uniquely hot environment.
3.7 Heat Disorders Symptoms and Guidance
Hazard Signs and Symptoms Treatment Prevention
• Cover skin with tightly woven

loose-fitting clothing.
• Cool the skin with water Remember your eyes need
Sunburn Hot, red, painful skin blisters •
and or lotions protection too, wear sunglasses
with UV protection
Heat Rash
Caused by humid
• Ointment, Rinse skin with • Keep skin dry and clean
conditions where Itchy, red rash
cool water • Wear loose clothing.
skin stays wet.
• Stay well hydrated

• Move to a cool place • Drink fluids that have salt in them
Heat Cramps Cool with sponge, water, Put salt on food (unless there is a
• Pain in muscles, • •
often the ones that and fan salt restriction)
Caused by losing too If worker is alert offer Salt tablets are not recommended
have been working • •
much salt. The fluids, juice, oral Avoid caffeine beverages
• Excessive sweating •
cramps often occur rehydrating solutions if Schedule heavy work in coolest
• Hot, moist skin •
late in the day or into required based on the part of the day or on cooler days
• Normal or slightly
the evening after the health condition of the Take frequent breaks in the shade
high temperature •
muscles have cooled. person. or an air-conditioned space
• Rotate heavy jobs
Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 14

Heat Exhaustion • Get medical aid as this can

• Sweating Cool, pale,
clammy skin •Shallow progress to a serious
This condition is breathing, illness. As for heat cramps and;
particularly Weak rapid pulse • Remove worker to a cool
• • Workers with heat exhaustion
dangerous to Headache location.
• usually recover quickly but they
workers with heart Nausea • Sponge with cool water
• should rest and restore fluids for
conditions or Confusion and fan unless worker
• the remainder of the day.
breathing Fatigue, weakness starts to shiver.
• • Use a buddy system.
problems. Loss of coordination • If alert and not nauseated
• • Ensure workers are trained to
It is caused by the Muscle cramps give fluids; juice,
• recognize Symptoms.
depletion of water • Temperature over rehydrating drinks.
and 38C
salt.
Seek medical attention immediately.

In the meantime
• Move the worker to a cool
• No sweating location
• Hot, dry, flushed skin • Remove outer clothing
Heat Stroke • Confusion and and wet the persons skin. As for heat exhaustion and;
dizziness • If unconscious, check • Training in early signs and
• Headache, nausea, airway and breathing. symptoms
A life-threatening and vomiting • Activate emergency CPR if
condition. It can • Increased respiratory necessary • Use of a buddy system to be
happen very quickly rate • If the person is conscious aware of early
or be preceded by • Irregular fast pulse give sips of water. • symptoms in coworkers.
heat exhaustion • Temperature 41C or • Seek medical attention as • Supervision of all workers at risk.
higher soon as possible. Lack of
• Shock Cardiac arrest. medical attention can lead
to permanent brain
damage or even death.
3.8 Heat Stress Management Plan

3.8.1 RSG H&S representative will use Heat stress plan checklist (RSG-HS-FRM-0064) for reviewing the Contractor Heat stress plan.
Contractors shall develop the site-specific Heat stress management plan in line with the Destination requirement as specified
in this procedure. As a minimum, the Heat Stress Management Plan should address the following:
• Scope & Purpose
• Compliance Requirements (RSG process/Regulatory requirements/Mid-day break etc.)
• Roles and Responsibilities (Contractor Management, (Includes Senior Management, project Manager, H&S
representatives, First aiders, nurse, employees, and sub-contractors).
• Heat Stress Management Process (Heat stress symptoms, heat illness and control measure)
• Work planning (Light works, heavy works, work timing, mid-day work ban and schedule etc.)
• Weather Monitoring and Communication (Heat Index monitoring, Flag system and communication methodology)
• Welfare Arrangements (This will be including but not limited to the welfare arrangements include but no limited
to; provision of rest area, temporary shaded areas, transportation arrangements, drinking water, cooling station,
PPE etc.)
• Training and Awareness (Heat stress training, awareness, and toolbox program).
• Heat Stress Risk Assessment (Site specific Heat stress risk assessment on Heat stress).
• Emergency Response Plan (How are going to handle potential Heat related illness, Emergency communication and
preparedness).
Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 15

3.9 Training
3.9.1 All employees who are potentially exposed to heat stress inducing conditions must receive training to include the following
topics:
• Physiological aspects of heat stress
• Causes of heat related illness:
o High air temperature/humidity
o Lack of air movement
o Radiant heat
o Lack of fluids
o Lack of acclimatization
o High rate of physical activity
• Symptoms of heat stress:
o Heat Stress – tiredness, irritability, cramps, dizziness, cool clammy skin, profuse sweating
o Heat Stroke – headache, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, irritability, confusion, dry skin, flushed, increased
body temperature
Influence of radiated, convection and metabolic heat, air movement; clothing; and work rates
Importance of fluid (water) intake
Work/rest regimens
• Control Strategies
• Measures for the prevention of heat related illness are as follows:
o Drink about 1 liter of water per hour, or more.
o The occasional electrolyte replacement drink is acceptable. Perhaps one a day is all you need for most
foreseeable activities.
o Schedule physical work during cooler periods of the day or perform the most strenuous tasks at night.
o Avoid caffeine and excessive sugar drinks.
o Regular rest breaks.
o Wet appropriate clothing.
o Protect from direct sun.
o Acclimatization
o Workers will be trained to identify their health condition (level of dehydration) by observing the color of
their urine.
3.9.2 Supervisors must receive training on identifying heat related illness as follows:
• Remove the affected employee to a cool area as soon as possible.
• Seek medical or paramedic assistance.
• Attempt to cool the body by means of water.
• Where possible give the affected employee water to drink.
3.9.3 First-aid providers must receive specific training in the recognition, treatment, and management of heat stress victims.
• Training will be conducted as follows:
o During site orientation
o Before commencement of the job/task that poses the risk
o Before the risk period (such as start of summer months).
Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 16

4 REFERENCES
4.1 Resources
S/No. Description Aconex Reference

Australian Government
1 Safety and Compensation Council; List of National Codes of External Reference
Practice/Standards
European Union
2 External Reference
European Agency for Safety and Health at Work
United Kingdom
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
3 External Reference
“Relevant UK Health & Safety Regulations made under the Health &
Safety at Work etc. Act 1974”
Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
4 KSA Labour law and Mid-day work ban regulation. External Reference
https://mlsd.gov.sa/en/node
4.2 Forms and Template

1 Heat Stress Plan Checklist RSG-HS-FRM-0064
4.3 Supporting Documents

1 H&S Leadership Policy RSG-HS-PLC-0001
2 Health and Safety Management System Manual RSG-HS-MNL-0002
3 Contractor Health and Safety Requirements RSG-HS-GEN-0003
5 APPENDICES
NA
Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 17

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Health and Safety Management

Heat Stress Management

FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 | Revision 00 | 30 Mar 2023

Superseded previous Lijo Abraham/

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE...........................................................................................................................................................................6

3 EXECUTION OF REQUIREMENTS .........................................................................................................................................................6

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

Acronyms and Abbreviations

H&S Health and Safety

RSG Red Sea Global

WBGT Wet Bulb Globe Temperature

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

Protective clothing, helmets, goggles, or other garments or equipment designed to protect

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

2.1.3 Heat stress monitoring and management strategies.

2.1.4 Effective implementation of Heat Stress Plan/Process.

3.1.2 RSG Construction/Operations Directors/Leads

3.1.3 RSG Construction/Operations Managers

3.1.4 RSG H&S Directors and Representatives

3.1.4.3 Perform inspection and audits to verify compliance

3.1.5 All First Aiders and Healthcare Professionals

3.1.5.2 Administer first aid treatment as per the training received.

3.1.6 All other employees

3.1.6.1 Follow instructions and training for controlling heat stress.

3.1.6.2 Be alert to symptoms in own self and in others.

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 6

3.1.6.5 Avoid consumption of excessive caffeine and energy drinks.

3.1.6.7 Get adequate rest and sleep.

3.1.6.8 Take regular rest brakes and follow flagging system.

3.1.7 Contractors Project Manager

3.1.7.5 Ensure training and awareness on Heat stress management.

3.2 Heat Stress Information

• Heat syncope (fainting)

• Working outside in the full sun in the summer

• Working in hot confined spaces such as process equipment

• Working near hot process equipment (boiler or furnace)

• Working in deep excavations or confined spaces

3.2.2 Factors and Conditions

3.2.2.1 Environmental Heat and Metabolic Heat

Workers typically are exposure to two forms of heat stress:

• Internal metabolic heat from physical exertion.

3.2.2.3 Wind, Humidly, Sun

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 7

3.2.2.7 Air Movement

3.2.2.9 Human Factors

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

Rev. 00, 30 Mar 2023 Page | 8

o Lower pulse rate and more stable blood pressure

o More efficient sweating (causing better evaporative cooling)

o Improved ability to maintain normal body temperatures

3.3 RSG Heat Stress Methodologies

3.3.1 Humidex/Heat Index Method

3.3.1.6 Heat Index Table:

RSG-HS-OCH-0003 FOR INTERNAL & EXTERNAL USE

Importance of fluid (water) intake