Heat Stress BUILDING EFFICIENCY MIDDLE EAST What’s wrong with me ? I have a headache and I’m feeling exhausted & faint Work Stress Psychological Stress Financial Stress Travel Stress Social Stress

Near-miss reporting2 HEAT STRESS YES, Summer has arrived ………….. Yesterday, the temperature in Dubai reached 41C (106F)

Near-miss reporting3 Heat Stress - Water content in Humans Body weight of an adult man = 60% water Body weight of an adult Woman = 55% water Body weight of babies = 75% water Perspiration is the body’s natural process for cooling itself (Evaporative Cooling)..…but if you are exposed to extreme conditions Water content in the human body is as follows: Lean muscle = 75% water by weight Blood = 70% water Bone = 22% water Body fat =10% water

Near-miss reporting4 HEAT STRESS When the body is unable to cool itself by sweating, several heat-induced illnesses such as ‘heat stress’ or ‘heat exhaustion’ and the more severe, ‘heat stroke’ can occur, and can result in death. Body’s reaction to temperature Increase in blood flow to skin and Sweating Excessive sweat and evaporation causes excessive body fluid loss Failure of body’s means to control internal temperature …….. Excessive loss of body fluids is dangerous Normal body temperature 37.0 °C (98.6 °F)

Near-miss reporting5 Heat Stress - Causes High temperature and humidity Extreme weather conditions in summer Direct sun or heat Limited air movement Physical exertion Produces heat within body causes stress Certain clothing Affects sweat evaporation Dehydration Dehydration due to any reason affects sweat production Heat stress leads to dehydration as well Inadequate tolerance for hot workplaces The tolerance differs from person to person

Near-miss reporting6 Heat Stress - Symptoms Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion Headaches Dizziness Lightheadedness or fainting Weakness and moist skin Muscle cramps Mood changes such as irritability or confusion Upset stomach or vomiting Symptoms of Heat Stroke Dry, hot skin with no sweating Mental confusion or losing consciousness Seizures or convulsions

Near-miss reporting7 Preventing Heat Stress Avoid exposure to strong sun Schedule out-door activities for the morning or, evening Mandatory afternoon breaks for site work or, physical outdoor activities Block out direct sun or other heat sources Use cooling fans/air-conditioning; rest regularly Drink lost of water; about 1 cup every 15 minutes Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothes Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, or heavy meals Know signs/symptoms of heat-related illnesses; monitor yourself and co-workers Acclimatize Human body increases tolerance with acclimatization

Near-miss reporting8 Treating Heat Stress Move the worker to cool / shaded area Loosen / remove heavy clothing Fan and mist the person with water Provide cool drinking water Seek medical advice

Preventing Heat Stress Thank You ! Near-miss reporting9