According to the National Weather Service climate prediction center, the 30-day forecast is leaning toward higher than normal temperatures. As our team stays focused on each other’s safety, this August we are on high alert for heat stress and dehydration. Even minor signs of dehydration can result in reduced brain capacity to make good decisions. When it comes to making safe choices in potentially dangerous working conditions in higher than normal working temperatures, proper hydration is critical, even when working at home.
5 preventive steps to avoid heat-related illnesses:
- Drink plenty of clear fluids, water is ideal, that do not contain caffeine or alcohol.
- Get plenty of rest and at least 7 hours of sleep nightly.
- Maintain a well-balanced diet that includes high moisture fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, watermelon and cucumbers.
- Take periodic breaks in the shade and from the hot weather.
- Place a cool towel around the neck when feeling tired or hot.
Water equals hydration and a good benchmark according to OSHA is 4 cups per hour of water when the heat index is high working outside. There are several free heat index apps available for smart phones, and local food markets are stocked with fruits and vegetables to help us stay hydrated.
Kyle Black is the District Manager at Seneca Meadows Landfill located in Seneca Falls, New York.