Sqwincher Activity Drinks
Factors contributing to heat stress
Workers can be exposed to heat stress in a variety of different jobs, and any process or site that could raise the deep core temperature to more than 100.4° increases the risk. Knowing the risk factors is the first step to controlling them.
Factors that determine the risk for heat stress
Medication
Some medications can affect the body’s ability to tolerate (and effectively deal with) heat.
Alcohol Use
Workers who have had alcohol in the past 24 hours are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Acclimatization
New employees and those who are returning from time away from the heat should do so slowly to allow the body to get used to the temperature.
Proximity to Hot Equipment
Workers doing tasks with, or in close proximity to, engines and other heat-generating equipment are at increased risk for heat illnesses.
Clothing and PPE
Some PPE is heavy and lacks the ability to breathe. Workers should pay special attention to the coated and non-woven materials often used in protective garments, which prevent the evaporation of sweat.
Fluid Loss
While this factor varies heavily from person to person, workers who lose more than 1.5% of their body weight in a single day from sweating are at greater risk of heat stress.
Work Schedule
Doing strenuous work during the hottest parts of the day puts workers at severe risk for developing heat-related illness.
Signs and symptoms to watch out for
It's critical to know the symptoms to look for. Identifying heat stress early on can (literally) be a lifesaver. Keep an eye out for:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Cool, clammy skin
- Pale face
- Cramps
- Weakness
- Excessive sweating
If these symptoms are present, move the individual to a cooler spot and provide water and rest. Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness, and if it's left untreated it can lead to serious and possibly fatal complications.
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