Coping With Heat Stress

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Coping With Heat Stress

It is that time of year again when we have to
worry about the heat and its affects. Working
under hot and humid conditions places a lot of
stress on the body which can result in minor or
life threatening illnesses. Being aware of the
various types of illnesses, symptoms and
preventive steps will help you deal with the
heat.
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Temperature Humidity Combined
Below is a diagram indicating the temperature and
humidity level that you need to be careful of.
Relative Humidity
Temperature
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How to recognise, treat and avoid heat illnesses?
Type Symptoms Treatment
Dehydration Flushed face Extreme thirst, more than normal or unable to drink Dry/ warm skin Dizziness made worse when you are standing Weakness Cramping in the arms and legs Headaches Dry mouth/ dry tongue Low blood pressure Rapid and deep breathing - faster than normal Fainting For mild to moderate dehydration, drink more water and try to avoid the heat until refreshed.
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Type Symptoms Treatment
Heat Rash Redness accompanied with swelling and inflammation of skin. Small blisters. Both symptoms commonly occur on the back of the neck. The best treatment is to provide a cooler, less humid environment. Clean the effected area and apply a mild lotion to it.
Heat Cramps Muscle pain in the abdomen, arms or legs may occur in association with strenuous activity. Rapid heartbeat Sweaty skin Stop all activities and do not return to strenuous activities until the cramps subside. Further exertion may lead to exhaustion or heat stroke This usually improves if you drink water and rest in a cool environment
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Type Symptoms Treatment
Heat Syncope (fainting) Faintness Dizziness Headaches Increased pulse rate Restlessness Nausea Vomiting A brief loss of consciousness. Lie or sit down under a shaded or cool environment. Try to take frequent breaks if working under high temperatures and drink a lot of water.
Heat Exhaustion Headaches Paleness Heavy sweating Thirst Dizziness Fatigue Nausea Impaired judgment Loss of appetite Shift to a cooler location and drink a lot of water. Use cold towels over your head and neck.
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Type Symptoms Treatment
Sunburn Skin becomes red painful Burning sensation and swelling Blisters Apply cold towels on the areas affected or take a cold shower. Apply moisture lotions and not ointments. Do not break blisters and try to avoid repeated sun exposure. Use sunscreen to avoid a sunburn. Seek medical attention for severe cases
Heatstroke/Sunstroke High body temperature Red and dry skin Throbbing headaches Nausea Unconsciousness Rapid and shallow breathing Fatigue Get to a shady cool area. Sponge or shower with cold water. Get a cold towel and wrap it around the body. Call 911 for medical treatment.
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General Precautions
Hydrations The best way to avoid heat stress
and other heat disorders is to keep your body
well hydrated. Drink a lot of water. Sports
drinks should be used sparingly and in a ratio of
five glasses of water for every glass of sports
drink. Ventilation Periodically go to cool areas
where your body can cool itself. If working in
hot conditions, try to take a break to regain
energy and to avoid overexposure to the sun.
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General Precautions

• Limit yourself
• It is also important to watch the amount of
  exertion during hot days. Dont overdo it. Heat
  stroke and other disorders can take affect in
  less than an hour. If you feel warm or dizzy,
  its best to take time to rest in a cool area.
• Prevent Dehydration
• Drink plenty of water, before during and after
  working in hot conditions.
• Consume fluids every 15 20 minutes.
• Avoid tea, coffee, sodas and alcohol as these
  lead to dehydration.
• Periodically rest in a cool environment.
• Where possible, wear lightweight, loose fitting
  clothing.
• Schedule vigorous activities during cooler times
  of the day.
• Protect yourself from the sun.

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Hot weather can bring a host of hazards.
Protect yourself from the heat!