Extreme Heat Wave South Australia- Warning to all – Take care Look out for your family and work mates!

Dec 17, 2015

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Background

  • The body gains heat from the environment, and internally generates heat from metabolic activity

  • Body temperature remains stable if we lose heat accordingly

  • This is due to physiological thermoregulation

  • Radiation, convection, conduction, evaporation of sweat
  • Also behavioural thermoregulation
    Protective mechanisms
    E.g. seeking shade, reducing physical activities
  • Failure to adequately thermoregulate when temperatures are high can lead to the onset of heat-related conditions

Workplace heat exposure

Can affect:

  • •Indoor workers
    Foundries, furnaces, factories, welding, confined spaces etc.
  • Outdoor workers
    Agriculture, construction, road workers, emergency services etc.

Due to:

  • High heat exposure

  • Personal protective equipment

  • Physical work

 

Prevention:
o Training and hazard awareness programs
o Sufficient rest periods and ability to self-pace o Changed work schedule arrangements
o Provision of cool micro-environments
o Increased air movement
o Acclimatisation
o Adequate hydration

Influencing factors:
o Physical activity
o Health & fitness, pre-existing conditions, age, medications o Clothing