Working safely in the heat: this is how you stay cool!

What are the signs of overheating?

If your body gets too hot, you may suffer:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Dehydration
• Fainting

Drink plenty of water

When you sweat, you lose a lot of fluid. Therefore, it is important to drink enough water, even if you are not thirsty. Take a bottle with you and drink a few sips of water every half hour. Prefer not to drink coffee or energy drinks, as these will only dehydrate you more.

Wear airy clothing

Wear clothing that lets air through and is a little looser. This allows the sweat droplets to evaporate faster, and the wind can act as an extra ventilation so you are a little cooler. Do you need to wear protective clothing? If so, ask your supervisor if you can take extra breaks to cool off.

Work in the shade as much as possible

Are you working outside? If so, try to work in the shade as much as possible. Ask if an umbrella or tent can be placed. Do you have to work in the sun? Then schedule the heaviest tasks in the morning or evening, when it is less hot.

Grease up

When you are working outside, the sun can feel very nice and warm, but make sure you apply sunscreen with a high factor. This will prevent you from getting sunburned at the end of the work day. The RIVM website(https://www.rivm.nl/zonkracht) lists the sun strength every 12 minutes.

Provide ventilation

Do you work indoors? Try to sit near windows that can open or near air conditioning. You can also put a small fan on your desk.

Adjust your pace

In hot weather, you may take breaks more often. Sit for a while in a cool room or in the shade. This will give your body time to cool down. Do you feel dizzy or nauseous? Then stop working and report it to your supervisor. Try to adjust your work pace to the heat.

Pay attention to your colleagues

Some colleagues have an extra hard time in the heat. Look out for each other and help if someone is not feeling well.

Working in the heat is not always avoidable. But with the right measures, you can stay safe and healthy. Take good care of yourself and your colleagues!

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