Summer is here and the weather will soon be reaching scorching levels, it seems as though it would be a good time to talk about how to stay safe in the heat and humidity. Depending on where you live and your tolerance for the heat, it may already be reaching uncomfortably warm temperatures.

 So, let’s start off by describing what heat stress is. Human bodies naturally maintain temperatures between 36° and 38°C. When the body temperature rises above this range, the body will react to get rid of the excess heat. However, if the body continues to gain heat faster than it can get rid of it, the body temperature rises to critical levels and a person will experience heat stress. Health problems that result from heat stress are known as heat disorders. Heat disorders occur most often when heavy physical work is done in hot, humid environments and when the body consequently loses too much fluid and salt.

 Some examples of possible heat disorders include:

 Heat Stroke

Heat Exhaustion

Heat Cramps

Heat Rash

Heat Syncope

The body can gain heat in two ways: it can generate heat itself through work activity, and it can absorb heat from the environment. Both work activity and the environment are important sources of heat.

Take a look at some of the tips below to help prevent heat stress:

Wear Light Clothing – Light coloured loose fitting clothes made from fabrics such as cotton allow air to pass through. Air passing over the skin will help cool the body by evaporating the sweat.

Drink Water – Sweating can use up a significant amount of fluid, which must be replaced continuously throughout the workday. If fluid is not regularly replaced, dehydration will result, increasing the risk of heat stress. Drink at least two glasses of water before starting work in a hot environment and one glass every 20 minutes throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to replace fluids.

Eating – Eat smaller but more frequent meals or snacks when working in hot environments.

Take It Inside – If the work you are doing can reasonably be done inside where it is cooler, then speak to your supervisor about moving it indoors.

Recognize the Signs – Know the signs of heat stress and if you are feeling ill, report it to your supervisor.

Shiloh Schmidt

Corporate Health and Safety