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Individual Differences
Individuals differ in their response to heat. Some workers are at greater risk for heat disorders. The reasons include inherited differences in heat tolerance and sweat rate. Excess body weight raises metabolic heat production. Illness, drugs, and medications can also influence your body's response to work in a hot environment. Check with your physician or pharmacist if you are using prescription or over-the-counter medications, or if you have a medical condition.
You should always train and work with a partner
who can help in the event of a problem. Remind each other to drink lots
of fluids and keep an eye on each other. If your partner suffers a heat
disorder, start treatment immediately.
Summary
Prevention
- Improve or maintain aerobic fitness
- Acclimate to the heat
On the Job
- Be aware of conditions (temperature, humidity, air
movement)
- Take frequent rest breaks
- Avoid extra layers of clothing
- Pace yourself
Hydrate
- Before work--drink several cups of water, juice, or
a sport drink
- During work--take frequent fluid breaks*
- After work keep drinking to ensure rehydration
- Remember, only you can prevent dehydration
Partners
- Always work or train with a partner
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs). Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.