RCS Tool Box Talks Controlling Heat Stress Tips for working in hot weather conditions

Hot Weather  When working in hot weather conditions, your body reacts differently. –Get used to working in hot conditions gradually  It may take your body up to 10 days to acclimate  Have scheduled work and rest periods. –Working in hot conditions requires longer and more frequent rest  Slow down your working pace to avoid over-exerting yourself

Liquid Intake  Drink lots of cool, not ice cold, water –Include salted beverages, such as Powerade, Gatorade, etc., to help your body retain fluids and replace the sodium lost in sweat  Avoid alcoholic beverages –Use adequate salt at meals –Consult with physician if you’re on a restricted salt or low- sodium diet  In some cases, thirst is not an accurate indication of your body’s need for liquids. –Be sure to drink constantly throughout the day

Movement & Clothing  Try not to stand immobile in one spot for extended periods –Wide-open surface capillaries (blood vessels) can pool blood in legs, causing temporary low blood pressure & black-outs. –Movement helps prevent blood pooling.  In very humid environments, sweat doesn’t evaporate readily, soaks clothes, and can result in heat rashes.  Bathe daily, and consider a complete change of clothes at mid-day (lunch break), during especially humid times.

Cool Areas  Fans help move the air and evaporate sweat  If you begin to feel ill, go into a cool area to recuperate –Continuing to work with a developing heat disorder can lead to a serious medical emergency –Stop working and notify your supervisor if you feel nauseated, light-headed, dizzy, excessively weak, or have similar symptoms. –Seek a cool place to lie down and rest.

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