Spring is at hand and with its arrival, we are reminded of the need to prepare for heat related disorders. Hydration, or ensuring the replenishment of fluids to our bodies, is something we should maintain all year round. Even in cool weather it is important to drink plenty of water. In the warmer weather of spring and summer it becomes increasingly important. The body works better when properly supplied with water. In fact without it we become ill and can even die.
In recent years OSHA and Cal/OSHA have taken a real interest in how companies are dealing with heat stress and the rehydration of their personnel. Of course, their main concern is the health and well-being of personnel working in extreme temperatures or high exertion tasks.
To truly be effective in preserving our health we need to consider hydration as a part of our daily lives whether indoors or out, or at work or recreation.
Water is the key. Not a cold beer, margarita, soda, tea or other liquids with caffeine or alcohol. These actually dehydrate the body, and can worsen the problem.
Sports drinks like Gator-Ade can be helpful in replacing the electrolytes lost during heavy perspiration. Our bodies need a level of sodium and potassium to properly function. These drinks can help, but water needs to be the mainstay of your hydrating efforts.
When the balance of electrolytes is off, our bodies will warn us with heat cramps, if we ignore them and carry on without tending to our electrolytes, we may then experience heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion can develop quickly in situations of high heat, high physical output and poor rehydration practices. It can also become compounded over several days of exposure.
Lastly, heat stroke, which was formerly called sun stroke, is the most severe form of heat induced disorder. This is true medical emergency that can be fatal. In this situation the body’s automatic temperature-regulating systems can no longer handle the job. The body temperature will rise; the skin will be hot and dry. The victim may be disoriented, sometimes combative and may pass out. Get Emergency Medical Services on the way immediately!
This is just a brief look at the dangers of becoming dehydrated and working in a warm environment. Please read the signs and symptoms of the various disorders on the chart. I will make copies available throughout the office, shop and jobsites. I have also developed a PowerPoint presentation that will be sent to each site and the shop. Office personnel that would like a copy please let me know and I will be happy to make it available or present it to your group.
Kenneth D. Cauble
Corporate Safety Director