Which action is a primary prevention measure for workers exposed to environmental hazards?

• A. Providing education to outdoor workers about heat-related illness
• B. Testing workers for obstructive lung disease
• C. Eye irrigation after chemical splash
• D. Collecting lead levels in children

Answer: (A)

Primary prevention aims to stop a health problem before it starts by reducing exposure and risks. Providing education to outdoor workers about heat-related illness does this by helping workers recognize danger signs, stay hydrated, pace activity, acclimate to heat, and take scheduled breaks. These actions prevent heat illness from occurring in the first place.

The other actions are not aimed at preventing the problem before it begins. Screening for lung disease detects disease after exposure has occurred (secondary prevention). Eye irrigation after a chemical splash is immediate treatment, not prevention. Collecting lead levels in children is surveillance and prevention focused on a population, but not a primary preventive measure for workers exposed to environmental hazards.