Heat Stress Awareness Is Critical with Increased PPE

Hot Months and Increased Use of PPE Require Heightened Awareness of Signs of Heat Stress

In 2020, our Summer jobsites are going to look a little different than previous years. Working in the heat during the pandemic will require us to redefine our safety measures as temperatures start climbing. Workers putting in a full shift wearing a mask or face covering are going to get hot and sweat more than usual. We need to make sure all workers are staying properly hydrated throughout their shifts.

Require Heightened Awareness of Signs of Heat Stress

In 2020, our summer jobsites are going to look a little different than previous years. Working in the heat during the pandemic will require us to redefine our safety measures as temperatures start climbing. Workers putting in a full shift wearing a mask or face covering are going to get hot and sweat more than usual. We need to make sure all workers are staying properly hydrated throughout their shifts.

How Electrolytes Can Boost Productivity

We can all picture athletes chugging down sports drinks to replenish their lost electrolytes. But, athletes aren’t the only ones who need to keep their bodies hydrated and fluid levels balanced. The demands of construction can really throw workers’ bodies off balance both physically and mentally. Understanding the importance of hydration for construction workers keeps us safe and ultimately more productive. During the summer months, we need to find effective ways to beat the heat and get the job done!

Even Slight Dehydration Causes A Drop In Productivity

A 1% drop in hydration can decrease a worker’s productivity by 12%, and they may begin experiencing decreased cognitive abilities, lower concentration and alertness, and slower reaction times. As a worker becomes more dehydrated, their effectiveness drops rapidly. A 3-4% decline in hydration can result in a 25% (or more) drop in productivity.

Delayed Reaction Time

At 3% dehydration, a worker’s reaction time is equivalent to someone with a blood alcohol content of .08%. At that blood alcohol level, you are about 5X more likely to cause an automobile accident. So at 3% dehydration not only does productivity suffer drastically, but accidents are likely.

A new study in the April issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise shows that: “… athletes can stave off fatigue 37% longer if they drink sports drinks — the kind with electrolytes and carbohydrates in them. They also run faster, have better motor skills, and are mentally sharper”.

How Do Electrolytes Work?

Electrolytes are chemicals that form electrically charged particles, or ions, in body fluids. Since electrolytes form ionic minerals they possess a positive or negative charge. This electrical energy is needed for all sorts of bodily functions and processes. All bodies at work or play need electrolytes to keep the nervous system and muscles functioning properly at optimal levels.

Electrolytes and Their Functions:

Sodium: Helps maintain the balance of water in and around cells, crucial for muscle and nerve function, and stabilizes blood pressure levels.
Chloride: Works with other electrolytes (potassium, sodium, and bicarbonate) to regulate fluid levels and maintain acid-base balance in the body.
Magnesium: Maintains normal nerve and muscle function, supports the immune system, stabilizes the heartbeat, contributes to bone strength, regulates blood glucose levels, and aids in energy and protein production.
Calcium: Essential for bone development, nerve transmission, muscle growth.
Potassium: Regulates fluid balance, nerve signals, muscle contractions, and blood pH levels. Can help lower blood pressure.

Electrolyte Loss and Construction Work:

The challenges arise during intense physical activities like construction work, where excessive sweating can lead to dehydration and electrolyte loss. Construction workers, exposed to elements and often wearing protective gear, face daily battles with electrolyte loss, especially in hot climates.

Recognizing Signs of Electrolyte Loss:

Dehydration Signs:
- Low blood pressure
- White fingertips
- Fast heartbeat
- Skin taking longer to return to its normal shape after being pinched

Importance of Replenishing Electrolytes:

Working in conditions of dehydration can be physically uncomfortable and hazardous, particularly when operating heavy equipment and using tools. Recognizing signs of low electrolytes and efficiently replenishing them is crucial for maintaining jobsite productivity and ensuring the safety of construction workers.

Electrolytes and Their Functions:

Sodium: Helps maintain the balance of water in and around cells, crucial for muscle and nerve function, and stabilizes blood pressure levels.
Chloride: Works with other electrolytes (potassium, sodium, and bicarbonate) to regulate fluid levels and maintain acid-base balance in the body.
Magnesium: Maintains normal nerve and muscle function, supports the immune system, stabilizes the heartbeat, contributes to bone strength, regulates blood glucose levels, and aids in energy and protein production.
Calcium: Essential for bone development, nerve transmission, muscle growth.
Potassium: Regulates fluid balance, nerve signals, muscle contractions, and blood pH levels. Can help lower blood pressure.

Electrolyte Loss and Construction Work:

Recognizing Signs of Electrolyte Loss:

Dehydration Signs:
- Low blood pressure
- White fingertips
- Fast heartbeat
- Skin taking longer to return to its normal shape after being pinched

Importance of Replenishing Electrolytes:

Symptoms Of Electrolyte Loss:

Muscle cramping or twitching
Fatigue, dizziness, nausea
Irregular heartbeat
Numbness or tingling
Loss of focus or confusion
Headache

Even mild dehydration can have negative effects on physical and mental performance, resulting in reduced energy levels, decreased endurance, and potential harm to brain function. Cramping is a common reaction to electrolyte loss, indicating the body is depleted. The goal in replenishing electrolytes is not just to prevent cramping but to maintain specific bodily functions at optimal levels.

If experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, taking a break in the shade and replenishing electrolytes is essential to avoid potential injury. Staying ahead of these symptoms is even better, as studies confirm that maintaining electrolyte levels allows individuals to stay focused and work in the heat for longer periods between breaks.

Best Ways To Replenish Electrolytes:

Sports Drinks:
- Full of electrolytes and carbohydrates.
- Effective for intense, all-day activities.
- Consider sugar-free versions for low to moderate intensity work.
Enhanced Water:
- Add electrolyte packets to water for an economical and effective solution.
- Water with added electrolytes can be beneficial for increased hydration.
Coconut Water:
- Low in sugar and rich in nutrients.
- Excellent for rehydration and replenishing potassium.
Natural Rehydration Drink:
- Mix water with a 10-1 ratio of sugar (or honey) to sea salt.
- A sugar-free alternative to replenish lost electrolytes.

Dietary Sources of Electrolytes:

Sodium:
- Found in pickled foods, cheese, and salt.
Chloride:
- Obtained through table or sea salt.
Potassium:
- Present in avocados, bananas, and other fruits and vegetables.
Magnesium:
- Available in seeds, nuts, and spinach.

Proper Diet: Maintaining a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables is crucial for replenishing electrolyte reserves. Avoiding excessive intake of processed foods and focusing on natural sources of electrolytes contributes to overall well-being.

Why Not Just Drink More Water? While drinking water is essential for preventing dehydration, it’s not sufficient on its own. Sweating depletes not only water but also electrolytes. Drinking water without replenishing lost electrolytes can cause dilution and further depletion. Providing both water and sports drinks on-site is a good practice for preventing and treating dehydration among workers. Additionally, it’s advisable to limit caffeine intake, as it acts as a diuretic and can speed up dehydration.

Keep The Crew Hydrated:

Just like elite athletes, contractors need to keep their hardworking bodies hydrated, and preventing electrolyte loss is better than treating it after cramps or other symptoms have had a chance to set in. It’s worth emphasizing in the next safety meeting just how important replenishing electrolytes is for worker health, safety, and productivity. On your jobsites make sure to set up shade areas with popups or E-Z Ups and provide a hydration station with some options. 5 or 10 gal. igloo coolers, cases of water with electrolyte packets, frozen Sqwincher Squeeze® Pops, etc., are always great ideas.

For more info on Electrolytes and Hydration:

To view the online article go to: https://news.whitecap.com/heat-stress-awareness/