Heat Stress season starts in June and goes to late September. The body will get used to working in the warmer environment gradually over time. The process of the body becoming more efficient of cooling itself is known as acclimatization.
During the acclimatization adjustment period:
The body redirects blood to the skin surface.
The heart becomes more efficient
Sweating starts sooner.
More sweat is produced
Sweat will contain less salt.
Symptoms of heat stress: fatigue, dizziness, heat rash, and stomach discomfort.
The acclimatization period can take five to seven days in the heat stress range. Acclimatized workers generally can work longer in hot weather than un-acclimatized workers. Dehydration can cancel the benefits of acclimatization.
Micro-breaks and lots of water are needed. Remove layers as the day warms and replace them as the day cools.
Even at night, although cooler, dehydration can be a factor in the dry climate of Alberta.
Consider the heat symptoms for yourself and anyone else that you encounter on the jobsite. Watch out for each other just like you do for Frostbite.
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