When the body becomes overheated, less blood goes to the active muscles, the brain, and other internal organs. Workers get weaker, become tired sooner, and may be less alert, less able to use good judgment, and less able to do their jobs well.
As strain from heat becomes more severe, there can be a rapid rise in body temperature and heart rate. Workers may not realize that this is happening because there is no pain. Mental performance can be affected with an increase in body temperature of 2oF above normal. An increase of 5oF can result in serious illness or death.
The most serious illness is heat stroke. Its effects can include confusion, irrational behavior, convulsions, coma, and even death. Heat stroke can make survivors very sensitive to heat for months and cause varying degrees of brain and Alertness and mental capacity may also be affected. Employees who perform delicate or detailed work may find their accuracy suffering. Other workers may suffer lowered comprehension and retention of information.
One of the most basic but effective ways to stop heat stress disorders is to practice “preventive behavior” on the job.
The following are some practices that can be implemented in most hot work environments.
- Drink water. Increase water/fluid intake to replace body fluid lost through perspiration. Caution: in extreme heat, thirst is not a reliable guide to the body’s need for water.
- Eat lightly. Avoid heavy meals and foods that are hard to digest.
- Avoid alcohol. Alcohol causes dehydration.
- Rest often. Give the body a chance to cool off.
- Plan ahead. Perform work activities during cooler periods of the day.
- Minimize activity in hot areas. Slow down the work place.
- Reduce the number and duration of exposures.
- Wear proper clothing. Heat reflective or light colored clothes, material that “breathes,” and even certain personal protective equipment, such as ice vests, can help workers combat heat stress.
good post ....
ReplyDeletethanks Raja !!!
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