The Clear Choice

The safety of your employees is a top priority at your firm. Considering the extreme heat we face each day, you should have enough ice cold water for your workers to drink daily.

Are you aware that OSHA's top priority this summer is a "campaign to prevent heat related illness in outdoor workers"? At B & B Ice & Water, we know how critical it is to treat ice and water as food, because they are. The FDA has regulations governing the proper handling of ice and water.

Since 1969, we have been in the ice business. In 2000 we began offering ice cold water to numerous businesses throughout our region and the intergrated refining services industry. We are often called on to speak at Safety meetings due to our expertise in preventing and treating heat related illness.

We would like to become your water provider. We offer seven (7) day a week service, multiple cooler sizes and flexible ordering. There is no minimum order and no long term contracts.

Contact us for any questions regarding the water cooler program. We are glad to assist you in providing ice & water for you and your employees. We are "The Clear Choice!"

For more information, contact us at 409-727-5714 or visit our website http://www.bnbice.com/

Hyperthermia: How to Prevent and Treat it

With temperatures rising above three digits and drought conditions worsening in the Southeast Texas area, the risk of heat related illness or hyperthermia in outside workers and athletes is more severe than ever. At B&B Ice, we understand these risks and the measures needed to be taken to prevent them. Here are some tips on how to prevent, recognize, and treat hyperthermia.


What is hyperthermia?
Hyperthermia is the overheating of the body. Hyperthermia or heat related illness occurs when our bodies can no longer transfer enough heat to keep us cool.


Prevention of Hyperthermia:
•Be aware of the National Weather Service “heat index” each day.  The “heat index” measures the risk of heat-related illness in relation to the air temperature and humidity.
•Practice heat safety measures.
•Drink plenty of water and isotonic drinks that replace electrolytes.

•Drink on a schedule. Two (2) hours before working in the heat, drink 24 oz.   of water. Drink 16 oz. of water 15 minutes before; continue drinking 8 oz. of fluids every 15 minutes while working.

•Check urine. Urine should be clear to pale yellow, and there should be a large amount if you are drinking adequately. You should urinate every 2 to 4 hours during an activity. If your output decreases, drink more fluids.

•If you must spend significant time in the sun, wear lightweight, light colored, loose fitting clothing. Wear a wide brimmed hat for shade.

•Stay as cool as possible. Take frequent breaks in the shade, by a fan , or in   air conditioning.  Cool your skin by spraying water over your body. Take a cool shower.

•If you have to stand for any length of time, flex your leg muscles often while   standing.

•Do not drink caffeine or alcohol. (Energy Drinks, Cokes, Tea, “Mountain Dew” are highest in caffeine.)

•Staying physically fit can help you acclimate to a hot environment.

Symptoms of Hyperthermia: 

•Heat Rash - Sweat ducts become blocked.

•Heat Cramps – Sweating causes loss of water, electrolytes, salt and minerals.

•Heat Edema – Swelling in legs and hands.
•Heat Stress – Dizziness, fainting.

•Heat Exhaustion – Working or exercising in hot weather and not drinking enough liquids.

•Heat Stroke – Body fails to regulate its own temperature. Body temperature rises often to 105 degrees.

Heat  stroke is a medical emergency, even with immediate treatment; it can be life threatening or cause serious long-term problems.


Treatment of Hyperthermia:
Emergency First Aid for heat stroke is needed immediately because this condition is life threatening.  After calling 911 or other emergency medical services, follow these First Aid steps:
•Stop your activity and rest.

•Move the person into a cool place, out of direct sunlight. 

•Remove unnecessary clothing and place the person on his/her side to expose as much skin surface to the air as possible.

•Cool the person’s entire body by sponge or spraying cool (not cold) water and fan the person to lower the person’s body temperature.

•Apply ice packs on the groin, neck and armpits.  Do not immerse the person in an ice bath.

•Drink lots of water.

•Rest for 24 hours.

As you can see, hyperthermia can lead to serious health issues or even death. By following these safety tips, hyperthermia can be prevented.


For more information on hyperthermia and heat related illness, or to request a free safety seminar at your company, visit the B&B Ice website or contact us at 409-727-5714.