Severe reactions to allergens can include:
- Nausea and dizziness, including a loss of balance.
- Severe respiratory distress. This may be evident when the victim clutches his chest or throat. Even delicious, nutritious mangoes can cause this if the peel is eaten because of the insecticides used.
- Skin blotches and swelling (e.g., from poison sumac or an insect sting).
- Swollen eyes to the point of seriously affecting vision. Blurry vision, even without swelling, is a serious allergic reaction and a dangerous one in electrical work.
- Swollen fingers or toes.
Seasonal allergies often get treated with over-the-counter medications. These can cause drowsiness. If a coworker is using such medications and seems inattentive, bring this to that person’s attention and let them know their solution isn’t safe. Things like using a Neti-pot can provide relief without the drug side-effects. Saline mist comes in convenient plastic bottles you can carry in your pocket.
It can help everyone to refrain from wearing fragrances and refrain from washing your clothes in fragrant detergent. Also refrain from using fabric softener; your clothes will be plenty soft if you don’t dry them on high heat or use excess detergent.
So-called air fresheners emit chemicals that often stoke allergic responses, so those are best avoided. A better solution is to improve the ventilation and combine that with non-toxic odor absorbers such as baking soda.
What about those serious attacks? A swelling or rash requires immediate attention. If your coworker tries to brush it off, don’t accept that. Escalate the issue to your supervisor and/or the site nurse or other authority. A rash may be only the first sign of a developing condition that can be life-threatening. Try to find out what may have caused the rash; the medical care provider will want this information.
If your coworker is having respiratory distress and strong fumes are present, you both need to evacuate the area immediately. Stay with your coworker until the breathing problems have subsided. Don’t let your coworker lie down or nod off while sitting up.
If your coworker has a skin rash, an emergency shower or eye wash is permissible for rinsing off, but hot water, which opens the pores, is not. Don’t let your coworker splash his face with water because whatever is on his hands will be splashed into his eyes. If your coworker needs to answer the call of nature, give him nitrile gloves or equivalent to protect sensitive regions.
In general, your response to a coworker’s severe allergic reaction needs to consist of ending the exposure, limiting the spread, and getting prompt medical attention. If you are the person having the severe allergic reaction, tell your coworker these are what your needs are.
