Recovering from a lunchtime walk outside, it occurred to me that many of us are not adjusting our daily routines in consideration of some of the extremely hot, humid weather this summer. Heat stress can have a severe impact on people’s health, particularly when we consider factors of underlying medical issues, obesity, age and level of physical fitness.
We are determined to maintain our work routines and daily schedules without stopping to consider the impact extremes in the physical environment are having on our bodies. In the hot summer climate we should all consciously be thinking about staying hydrated and taking periodic breaks from the heat throughout the day – waiting until you are thirsty or until your next scheduled break is usually too late. This heat requires the body to increase its physiological activity to maintain your normal body temperature. Consequently, we should be maintaining a constant hydration level so the body does not have to compensate for large swings in fluid levels (consider two marathon runners; one who takes in water at regular intervals throughout the race, and another who drinks an equivalent total only at the end of the race).
Periodic rest and intake of fluids are a necessity to avoid heat stress, particularly for those working outdoors. It is imperative that we all familiarize ourselves with the early signs of heat stress so we can support our fellow employees and avoid potentially hazardous situations.
I encourage you to review the CCOHS resources below about the health effects of excessive heat.