Managing Heat Stress and Hydration Post-Midday Break

As the midday break regulation came to an end on the 15th of this month, workers are getting back to their full-day schedules, even in the intense heat. But this does not mean that the importance of hydration and replenishment must be overlooked.

Excessive sweating can lead to electrolyte imbalance, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea even at lower temperatures. Precautions are essential when temperatures exceed 29°C, and workers must have water and electrolyte drinks after breaks to stay healthy.

Why do you need electrolytes even after the Midday break?

While temperatures may have marginally dropped, the heat and humidity are still severe. The temperature has elevated above 35°C and so has the humidity level. In the case of outdoor workers, they lose electrolytes easily through sweat. This makes hydration and maintaining electrolyte levels crucial for preventing dehydration and other heat stress-related problems.

One of the most persistent myths that must be busted is that electrolytes aren’t necessary after midday breaks. However, in reality, workers still need to replenish their electrolytes as the heat and humidity don't just disappear once the temperature goes down a few degrees. Sweating doesn't stop once the sun goes down a few degrees; in fact, the added humidity intensifies the body’s need to restore its electrolyte balance. Therefore, HSE officers must ensure electrolyte intake throughout the day, as maintaining electrolyte balance is the master key to preventing dehydration and heat stress.

Dehydration signs to look for:

• Fatigue: Dehydration can cause increased tiredness and decreased endurance during physical activity.
• Nausea: One of the main indicators of dehydration that makes it hard to drink fluids is nausea. This dehydration can be worsened by the absence of fluids, which may result in further health issues.
• Vomiting: Vomiting causes a sudden loss of fluids, which makes dehydration worse. During this time, the body finds it more difficult to maintain the required levels of water. When a person vomits more, it speeds up the dehydration process.
• Excess sweating: Excess sweating leads to rapid fluid and electrolyte loss, especially in heat, making it difficult to maintain hydration.
• Change in urine colour: A noticeable darkening or discoloration of urine can indicate dehydration and insufficient fluid intake. To assess your hydration levels more accurately, refer to a urine color chart. Lighter, clearer urine usually suggests proper hydration, while darker urine signals a need for more fluids.

• Dry skin and cracked lips: Common signs of dehydration include dry skin, mouth, and decreased skin elasticity.
• Headaches: Insufficient fluid intake can trigger headaches, potentially due to changes in blood flow or pressure.
• Light-headedness and dizziness: Dehydration may cause dizziness or light-headedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Heart palpitations: Dehydration can lead to sensations of an irregular heartbeat, affecting overall heart health.
• Low blood pressure: Significant dehydration can reduce blood volume, leading to dangerously low blood pressure and increased risk of shock.
• Poor attention: Dehydration can impair cognitive function, affecting memory, mood, and concentration. Severe cases may lead to confusion or irritability.

Here are some key heat stress management practices that can be followed:

• Ensure workers have access to cool water and electrolyte drinks every day.
• Ensure that rest areas are shaded.
• Provide cooling equipment and monitor hydration levels.
• Use mechanical aids, schedule heavy work during cooler hours, and rotate tasks.
• Conduct medical screening for workers vulnerable to heat stress.
• Communicate heat stress risk levels via mobile alerts or flag systems.
• Provide lightweight, breathable clothing and ensure regular cleaning.

HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) managers must take the responsibility of implementing these preventive measures to protect workers from heat stress, even after the midday break. Remember, electrolyte replenishment is not optional but essential for workers to recover and maintain balance in harsh weather conditions.

So, this summer, make sure that you stay hydrated and safe.

The heat might still be there, but so are the solutions to protect yourself right before you!