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Staying cool while working in the heat is paramount to avoiding heat illness. Heat illness is a condition that can occur when the body’s temperature regulation system is overwhelmed by external heat sources.
Depending on the severity, heat illness can lead to serious health complications or even death. The most serious type of heat illness is heat stroke. Other heat illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat rash, should also be avoided.
According to OSHA's quick card about protecting workers from heat stress, some risk factors for heat illness include:
• High temperature and humidity, direct sun exposure, no breeze or wind
• Heavy physical labor
• No recent exposure to hot workplaces
• Low liquid intake
• Waterproof clothing
If you read on you will find several tips to stay cool while working in the heat and how to avoid heat illness.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is essential for keeping your body functioning properly, especially outdoors. When you don’t drink enough water, you can start to feel fatigued, your skin can become dry and brittle, and you may even start to experience headaches. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re working.
It is also a good idea to eat foods that contain a lot of water, such as fruits and vegetables. If you’re not used to drinking a lot of water, it can be easy to forget, so make sure to set a reminder on your phone or keep a water bottle at your desk. Drinking small sips of water regularly throughout the day is better than chugging a large glass all at once, as this can make you more dehydrated.
Now, imagine a case where you have a sudden urge to drink water. At this point, you hastily gulp down a glass of water. This can lead to the improper absorption of water within the body. Any excess water in the body is flushed out through urine, which is more likely to happen with gulping.
So next time you feel thirsty, reach for a glass of water instead of a coffee or soda. And remember to sip throughout the day, as opposed to gulping a glass down and leaving it at that. Your body will thank you!
Wear Light, Loose-fitting Clothing
Working in the heat can be dangerous if you don't take the proper precautions. When it's hot outside, the last thing you want to do is put on a heavy coat or tightly-fitted clothing. But did you know that what you wear can affect how your body regulates its temperature? That's why it's important to dress appropriately when working in the heat.
Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing will help your body to stay cool by allowing air to circulate. In contrast, tight-fitting or heavy clothing will trap heat and make your body work harder to regulate its temperature. As a result, you may start to feel overheated and uncomfortable.
So next time you head out into the heat, be sure to wear light, loose-fitting clothes that will help keep you cool.
Take Frequent Breaks to Cool Down
Working in the heat can be tough, no matter how used to it you are. The key to avoiding heat exhaustion or other heat-related illnesses is to take frequent breaks to cool down. When our bodies get too hot, we start to sweat. Sweating helps us cool down by evaporating the water on our skin.
However, if the air is already very humid, sweating may not be effective. In these conditions, it's important to take breaks in a cool, air-conditioned space. This will help your body temperature return to normal and reduce your risk of overheating. If you start to feel faint, dizzy, or nauseous, these are all signs that you need to get out of the heat and seek medical attention immediately.
Heat stroke is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated quickly. By taking frequent breaks and listening to your body, you can stay safe and healthy while working in the heat.
Use a Fan or Air Conditioner
Anyone who has ever worked in a hot environment knows how quickly the heat can sap your energy and productivity. While it might be tempting to just tough it out, there are things you can do to stay cool and keep your head in the game.
One of the most effective ways to beat the heat is to use a fan or air conditioner. By circulating cool air around your workspace, you can quickly lower your body temperature and stay comfortable even on the hottest days. Not only will this help you stay productive, but it can also help you avoid heat-related health problems like dehydration and heat exhaustion.
So next time you're feeling sweaty and sluggish, reach for a fan or air conditioner and give yourself a much-needed dose of cool relief. If you don't have access to a fan or air conditioner, try opening windows or doors to let in a breeze. You can also wet a towel or handkerchief and place it on your neck or forehead. Taking these steps can help you stay cool while working in the heat.
Make Sure to Monitor the Weather
As the summer heat intensifies, it is important to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. One of the most important things to do is to monitor the weather forecast the day before you plan to work outside. If the forecast predicts high temperatures, make sure to stay hydrated and take breaks in shady or air-conditioned areas as needed. It is also a good idea to wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and to avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest hours of the day.
While most people are careful to take precautions when working in hot weather, they may not realize that the weather the day before can also be a factor. For example, if it has been cloudy and humid, the body may not have had a chance to cool down overnight. As a result, workers may be at an increased risk for heat-related illness.
Similarly, a sudden drop in temperature can also lead to problems. The body may have already begun to sweat in anticipation of hot weather, and a sudden change can lead to chills and increased fatigue. For these reasons, it is important to monitor the weather forecast not just for the day of work, but also for the day before. By being aware of potential temperature changes, workers can take steps to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.
Cool Down Your Body Temperature
While working in the heat, it's important to stay hydrated and cool your body temperature down to avoid heat exhaustion. One way to do this is to drink cold drinks or eat ice cream.
Cold temperatures help to lower your body temperature and prevent you from overheating. Cold drinks also help to keep you hydrated, which is essential when working in the heat. Ice cream is a good option because it's not only hydrating but also has a high water content, which can help to cool you down. You can even choose a healthy option like fruit popsicles or make your frozen yogurt for a refreshing and cooling treat.
Snack on Hydrating Fruits and Vegetables
While water is always the best way to stay hydrated, several fruits and vegetables can help. Cucumbers, for example, are 96% water, and watermelons are 92% water. Both of these fruits are perfect for snacking on in the heat. Other hydrating options include celery, strawberries, and cantaloupe.
So next time you're feeling thirsty, reach for one of these hydrating fruits or vegetables instead of sugary drinks or caffeine. Your body will thank you!
Stay in the Shade as Much as Possible
As the temperatures start to rise, it is important to take precautions to prevent heat-related illness. One of the best ways to stay cool is to stay in the shade as much as possible. Shade helps to reflect away some of the sun's heat and also blocks harmful UV rays.
If you must work in direct sunlight, be sure to take breaks in the shade and drink plenty of fluids. Wear loose, light-colored clothing to help keep your skin cool, and don't forget to apply sunscreen.
Use Buddy System to Stay Safe
As temperatures rise, it's important to take extra care to stay safe while working outdoors. One way to do this is to use the buddy system. When working in hot weather, it's important to have someone to keep an eye on you. If you start to feel faint or dizzy, your buddy can help you get out of the heat and seek medical attention.
Additionally, your buddy can help you stay hydrated by making sure you're drinking enough fluids. The buddy system is a simple way to stay safe in the heat, and it can be a lifesaver in an emergency. So next time you head out into the heat, make sure you have a buddy by your side.
Slowly Acclimate Yourself
Anyone who has ever stepped outside on a summer day knows that the heat can be intense. For those who are not used to working in such conditions, it is important to take some time to slowly acclimate yourself. This means gradually spending more time outdoors and increasing your activity level.
Start by spending a few minutes outside each day, and then gradually increase the amount of time you spend outdoors. At the same time, you should also increase the level of physical activity you are doing. For example, start by going for a walk, and then eventually add in some light jogging or running. By slowly increasing your exposure to heat, you can avoid becoming overheated or suffering from other heat-related illnesses.
Excessive Heat Recorded This Summer
According to The National Weather Service, there have been numerous excessive heat warnings recorded this summer. An excessive heat warning is issued when the heat index is forecast to reach at least 110 degrees for two or more consecutive days. When this happens, it's important to take extra care to stay safe and cool.
The National Weather Service said the unpleasant heat that so many are experiencing extends down to the Southern Plains and Southwest. In Texas, the National Weather Service warned residents about the extreme heat for much of July. Houston has had so many 100-degree days so far this year, that forecasters there predict this summer will move into the top five of 100-degree day count.
What to Do When a Worker is Ill from the Heat
According to OSHA's Protecting Workers from Heat Stress Quick Card, there is a list of instructions to follow when someone is ill from the heat
• Call a supervisor for help. If the supervisor is not available, call 911.
• Have someone stay with the worker until help arrives.
• Move the worker to a cooler/shaded area.
• Remove outer clothing.
• Fan and mist the worker with water; apply ice (ice bags or ice towels).
• Provide cool drinking water, if able to drink.
IF THE WORKER IS NOT ALERT or seems confused, this may be a heat stroke. CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY and apply ice as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Heat illness is a serious problem, but it can be prevented with the proper precautions. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, wear light clothing, and take breaks in the shade to keep cool. If you experience any heat-related symptoms, seek medical attention right away. And don’t forget to check the weather forecast before heading outdoors – if it’s too hot for you to work safely, make sure to take precautions!
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