Working in the Sunshine
 

It’s summertime. The cold miserable winter is over and good weather is the rule. However, all that warmth and sunlight can cause problems of their own. You need to be aware of the following dangers associated with summer: heat stress, heat cramps, heat rash, dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and severe sunburn. Here is a brief description of the worst of these dangers, and some prevention and first aid tips.

Sunburn

Sunburn occurs when unprotected skin is exposed to the intense rays of the sun. This can cause painful, even debilitating burns. It can also lead to serious skin problems, such as skin cancer. You should always use sunscreen on areas of your body not protected by clothing.

Dehydration

Dehydration is simply a lack of water in the body. A person suffering from dehydration will display some or all of the following symptoms: dry mouth, decreased urine output, sunken eyes, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, severe thirst, increased heart-rate and breathing. If you experience any of the above symptoms, or observe them in a friend then you need to get immediate medical attention Dehydration can strike anyone at any time. However by taking some basic precautionary measures, the harmful effects of dehydration can be avoided.

1. Always drink plenty of fluids especially when going out to work in the Sun.
2. Keep a careful check on intake and outflow of fluids. The human body should never lose more fluids than it is taking in.
3. Try to schedule all physical outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day.
4. For re-hydration a simple solution with a little salt will do wonders. Common athletic drinks like Gatorade are useful in maintaining electrolyte balance.

Heat Exhaustion

The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion are headache, nausea, vertigo, weakness, thirst, and giddiness. Fortunately, this condition responds readily to prompt treatment.

Workers suffering from heat exhaustion should be removed from the hot environment and given fluid replacement. They should also be encouraged to get adequate rest.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the body's system of temperature regulation fails and body temperature rises to critical levels. This condition is caused by a combination of highly variable factors, and its occurrence is difficult to predict. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. The primary signs and symptoms of heat stroke are confusion; irrational behavior; loss of consciousness; convulsions; a lack of sweating (usually); hot, dry skin; and an abnormally high body temperature. If body temperature is too high, it causes death.

If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, call an ambulance immediately. Their condition will rapidly deteriorate. Until medical help arrives, move the victim from the heat and into a cool place. Use extreme caution and bath the victim with water. Shock may occur if done too quickly or with too cool of water

Protect Yourself from the Sun

1. Wear protective clothing, including a hat, which does not transmit visible light.
2. Frequently apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of 15 or higher. Be sure the sunscreen guards against UVB and UVA radiation.
3. Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.
4. Seek shade, if possible

Protect yourself from the heat

1. Drink lots of water
2. Stay out of the heat as much as possible.
3. Watch for warning signs.