1. When does "rhabdomyolysis" occur? What are its effects?
Whenever muscle damage occurs - whether it is the result of a work-related incident, heat exposure, overexertion, or another cause - rhabdomyolysis can occur. Also known as “rhabdo,” this condition develops when damaged or dead muscles break down and release cellular components into the bloodstream, according to NIOSH, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (USA). Once released into the bloodstream, proteins and electrolytes can cause organ damage.
Rhabdo can cause kidney damage or failure, dangerous heart rhythms (arrhythmia), seizures, nausea and vomiting, and permanent disability, among other health problems. This condition can even lead to death.
NIOSH notes that rhabdo can affect anyone, but some workers are at higher risk, including those who work in hot environments and/or perform physically demanding jobs. These groups include firefighters (both structural and wildland), police officers, farm and construction workers, and military service members. Common work-related causes of rhabdo include:
- High body temperature due to working outdoors in hot environments and in or near hot processes, or wearing personal protective equipment that can retain body heat.
- Overuse of muscles by individuals whose jobs require high physical exertion or who engage in high-intensity exercise or physical fitness tests.
- Muscle injury due to trauma from collisions, such as falls from height or car accidents.
3. What are the symptoms of "Rhabdomyolysis"?
These symptoms include muscle cramps, aches or pain more severe than expected, dark-colored urine, and feeling weak or tired.
NIOSH notes that these symptoms can appear at any time after a muscle injury, adding that for some people, symptoms may not begin to appear until several days after the initial injury.
4. How to help protect workers from "Rhabdomyolysis"?
- Has a heat stress management policy.
- Allow employees to see a doctor when they have symptoms, and let them know they can return to work once cleared by a doctor.
- Encourage employees to take sick leave when ill.
Source: safetyandhealthmagazine
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