HEAT STRESS

Medical Effects of Heat
High Temperatures can defeat the body’s ability to cool itself. If this happens, internal body temperatures then rises dramatically and drastically: effects from heat range from discomfort and dehydration to heat stress, heat stroke, kidney damage and even death.

Discomfort
The World Health Organisation recommends 75°C/24°F as a maximum air temperature for comfortable working. Above this temperature, people are more liable to have accidents, as they are less alert.

Dehydration
Symptoms are headaches and cramps: fluid loss through sweating must be replaced; there should be access to cool fresh drinking water and sufficient recovery breaks. Salt may be available but only taken in moderation, alcohol should be avoided.

Consumption of Water
The body consists of 70% water: The British Dietetic Association guidelines state that we should each drink approx. 8 glasses (or 2 litres) of water per day, just to keep our body’s fluid levels balanced, This quantity should of course be increased in hot weather or during periods of sustained physical activity in order to counter the water loss through perspiration. A reduction of water intake of just 4% or 5% increases the potential of an accident by 25% or 30%.

Heat Stress
Symptoms are clammy skin, lightheadedness, slurred speech, rapid pulse, fatigue, confusion, fainting, nausea, short temper and loss of concentration: victims should be removed to a cooler area and given liquid.

Heat Stroke
Symptoms are a staggering walk, hot skin and raised body temperature (though the victim may feel chilly), incoherence, mental confusion, convulsions and unconsciousness. This can lead to long-term illness or even death. Victims should receive immediate medical attention.
In assessing the risk, other factors should be taken into consideration. These include air movement, humidity, radiant heat sources and the physical nature of the work.

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