The Assessment of Heat-Stress Risk During Glass Furnace Operation

Abstract

The objective of this research project was to assess the risk of heat stress and heat-related illness during the operation and maintenance of a glass furnace. The study was performed within an industrial setting at Company XYZ’s, glass plant in central Wisconsin. To assess the risk of heat exposure, an analysis of two recent heat stress incidents was performed and corrective actions were assessed. The Wet Bulb Global Temperature was evaluated, which indicated high-risk exposures during normal operation and maintenance of the industrial furnace. Company XYZ’s heat stress policy and procedure were also analyzed and were found to be severely lacking or absent. Although training for heat awareness was conducted in 2021, this was the only time that such had been completed in the glass production plant’s history. Thus, evidence indicates that Company XYZ was inadequately prepared to control the risk of extreme heat-stress exposures. It is recommended that Company XYZ perform a training needs analysis to identify the areas in which training in heat-stress related topics must be performed. Table-top exercises along with instructor led training would prompt employees to understand the risks associated with heatstress and the methods to mitigate such risks. Company XYZ should also begin to develop proactive policies and programs addressing heat-stress related risk. Although a comprehensive federal regulation focusing on heat-related risk has yet to be publishes, Company XYZ may reference existing state plans as well as recommendations from federal entities regarding OSHA’s National Emphasis Program for programmatic development purposes.