submitted for publication Safe Work Matters December, 2018 Climate Change Impact on AQ: Due to Manitoba’s northern latitude and continental geography, our province is projected to continue to s ee rapid changes in our climate-- warming much faster than the global average --with significant major disruptions in our social, economic, and ecological systems, industry sectors, and health. Climate Change and higher temperatures will increase smog pollution as well as wildfires, due to the drying of the forest floor with elevated heat and drought. This year Manitoba had 472 wildland fires which burnt 218,000 hectares. Canada’s wildfires prompted air quality advisories by Environment Canada. T he Canadian Medical Association estimated that the Illness Cost of Air Pollution (ICAP) in 2008 was $8 billion in Canada for lost productivity, healthcare costs, quality of life, and loss of life. Approximately 21,000 deaths could be attributed to air pollution, t...
Published in SAFE Work Matters, July, 2018 https://www.safemanitoba.com/News/Pages/Heat-Strain-at-Work-with-Dr.-Denise.aspx High temperatures can cause excessive stress on the body, especially when combined with high humidity, direct sun and/or a lack of appropriate air movement. These factors can overwhelm the body's ability to cool itself, a condition known as heat strain. It's essential for workers exposed to heat during their work day to know how to recognize and respond to incidents of heat stress exposure, and to take necessary safety measures to stay healthy and comfortable. Manitoba employers should also be aware of their responsibilities when it comes to addressing heat stress in their workplaces. Recognizing and responding to heat stress exposure We tend to associate heat stress with working outdoors; however, indoor workers can also be at risk. Indoor workers who work in hot environments (e.g., foundry workers), or in buildings without air conditioning (...