Heat StressBUILDING EFFICIENCY MIDDLE EAST
What’s wrong with me ?I have a headache and I’m feeling exhausted & faint
Work Stress
Psychological Stress
Financial Stress
Travel Stress
Social Stress
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HEAT STRESS
YES, Summer has arrived …………..
Yesterday, the temperature in Dubai reached
41C (106F)
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Heat Stress - Water content in Humans
Body weight of an adult man = 60% water
Body weight of an adult Woman = 55% water
Body weight of babies = 75% water
Perspiration is the body’s natural process for cooling itself (Evaporative Cooling)..…but if you are exposed to extreme conditions
Water content in the human body is as follows:
Lean muscle = 75% water by weight
Blood = 70% water
Bone = 22% water
Body fat =10% water
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HEAT STRESS
When the body is unable to cool itself by sweating, several heat-induced illnesses such as ‘heat stress’ or ‘heat exhaustion’ and the more severe, ‘heat stroke’ can occur, and can result in death.
Body’s reaction to temperature
Increase in blood flow to skin and Sweating
Excessive sweat and evaporation causes excessive body fluid loss
Failure of body’s means to control internal temperature
…….. Excessive loss of body fluids is dangerous
Normal body temperature 37.0 °C (98.6 °F)
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Heat Stress - Causes
High temperature and humidity
Extreme weather conditions in summer
Direct sun or heat
Limited air movement
Physical exertion
Produces heat within body causes stress
Certain clothing
Affects sweat evaporation
Dehydration
Dehydration due to any reason affects sweat production
Heat stress leads to dehydration as well
Inadequate tolerance for hot workplaces
The tolerance differs from person to person
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Heat Stress - Symptoms
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Headaches
Dizziness
Lightheadedness or fainting
Weakness and moist skin
Muscle cramps
Mood changes such as irritability or confusion
Upset stomach or vomiting
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Dry, hot skin with no sweating
Mental confusion or losing consciousness
Seizures or convulsions
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Preventing Heat Stress
Avoid exposure to strong sun
Schedule out-door activities for the morning or, evening
Mandatory afternoon breaks for site work or, physical outdoor activities
Block out direct sun or other heat sources
Use cooling fans/air-conditioning; rest regularly
Drink lost of water; about 1 cup every 15 minutes
Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothes
Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, or heavy meals
Know signs/symptoms of heat-related illnesses;
monitor yourself and co-workers
Acclimatize
Human body increases tolerance with acclimatization
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Treating Heat Stress
Move the worker to cool / shaded area
Loosen / remove heavy clothing
Fan and mist the person with water
Provide cool drinking water
Seek medical advice
Preventing Heat Stress
Thank You !
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