Biological hazards for Outdoor Workers

Stinging insects;

Employees that work outdoors will face a wide range of hazards each day on the job. One of the most common is insect stings. The affects of stinging insects can range from a mild irritation to a severe reaction from anaphylactic shock to workers who are allergic to the insect’s venom.

Thousands of people are stung each year by insects and it is estimated that there are 90 to 100 deaths each year as a result of allergic reactions. Most stings however are mild causing only itching or stinging and mild swelling that will disappear in a day or so. There are products available that can reduce the pain of insect stings such as sting swabs or hydrocortisone and are a great addition to any first aid kit.

Treatment for Mild Reactions;

• Move to an area safe from more exposure.
• Remove the stinger by scraping or rubbing with gauze. Never try to pull it out with your fingers or a tweezers to reduce the risk of injecting more venom.
• Use Hydrocortisone cream several times a day until symptoms subside.
• Take an antihistamine containing diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Tylenol Severe Allergy) or chlorpheniramine maleate (Chlor-Trimetron, Actifed).
• Apply ice if you notice swelling.

Recognizing a Severe Reaction;

If any of the following symptoms appear, call 911 immediately.

• Dizziness or Fainting
• Confusion
• Swelling of the lips or throat or difficulty breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Nausea, cramps, vomiting or hives

Treatment for a Severe Reaction;

• Check for any medications the person may have with them. If they have a history of allergies they may have some medications with them such as an epinephrine injector (Epi-Pen). Always follow the instruction closely when using such a device.
• Have the person lie flat with their feet slightly elevated and loosen any tight clothing, do not give them anything to drink
• Give them an antihistamine pill if they are able to swallow
• If they are choking or vomiting, turn them on their side
• If there are no signs of circulation such as breathing, coughing or movement start CPR immediately.

Prevention;

• Cover your body with clean, smooth and light colored clothing.
• Don’t wear cologne or any scented toiletries. Especially avoid bananas and banana scented toiletries
• Bathe daily, sweat angers bees
• Keep work areas clean, social wasps thrive where humans discard food.
• If a single stinging insect is flying around, remain still. Swatting or swinging at them only provokes and may cause them to sting
• If attacked by several at once get away from them, go indoors when few are around you. A shaded area is better than an open area.
• Do not jump into water. Bees are known to hover above water stinging you when you come up for air.

It is important to know the risks of exposure to stinging insects, how to protect yourself and what to do if stung. For more information please call 866-362-2691 or e-mail us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit our website at www.westernfirstaid.com