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Acclimated
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•The human body can adapt to heat exposure up
to a point. After acclimatization, the same activity will produce lower
cardiovascular demands. The worker
will sweat more efficiently (causing better evaporative cooling), may lose
less salt, and thus will more easily maintain normal body temperatures.
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•OSHA recommends five days for acclimatization.
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•Some heat acclimatization can be lost when
individuals are removed from hot environments for periods as short as two
weeks
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•Shifting heavier work to cooler parts of the
day
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•Rotating work assignments among crews
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Fluid
Replacement
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•Ample supplies of liquids should be placed
close to the work area
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•One cup every 20 minutes
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•Start drinking water before the beginning of
the work period.
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•Water is the first choice for
rehydrating. Drinks containing
electrolytes such as Gatorade, Squincher, etc.; can be used, providing they are not the sole source of
fluid at the work site. (Individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, or
on a low sodium diet should consult a physician before drinking electrolyte
containing drinks such as Gatorade and Squincher. All others may drink in moderation.)
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Training
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•Training is the key to good work
practices. If all employees do not
understand the reasons for using new or changing old work practices, the
chances of such a program succeeding are greatly reduced
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• Knowledge of the hazards of heat stress.
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•Recognition of predisposing factors, danger
signs, and symptoms.
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•Awareness of first-aid procedures for and
potential health effects of heat stroke.
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•Employee responsibilities in avoiding heat
stress.
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•Dangers of the use of drugs, including
therapeutic ones, and alcohol in hot work environments.
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•Use of protective clothing and equipment.
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•Purpose and coverage of any environmental and
medical surveillance programs and the advantages of worker participation in
such a program.
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Body Cooling
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•Ice Vests-The cooling offered by ice packets
lasts only two-four (or less) hours at moderate to heavy heat loads, making
frequent replacement necessary.
However, ice vests do not encumber the worker with air supply or power
cords, permitting maximum mobility.
Cooling with ice is also relatively inexpensive.
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Respirator
Usage
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•The use of self contained breathing apparatus
(SCBA) itself and its additional weight adds to stress to the worker, and
this stress will contribute to the overall heat stress of the worker.
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•Chemical protective clothing such as totally
encapsulated chemical protection suits will also add to the heat stress
problem.
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•Frequent shifts of workers may be necessary
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