Expert Advice

STAY HYDRATED STAY SAFE

Australia’s summers can be harsh, and it is vital that you replenish your body with the essential vitamins, minerals and electrolytes you sweat out when working in the heat.

Dehydration takes effect remarkably quickly and can cause loss of strength, speed, focus and in extreme cases can be life threatening. Powdered and liquid electrolyte concentrates are an easy way to ensure you remain hydrated while also keeping your electrolyte levels topped up.

UNDERSTANDING THE RISK

There are many factors that affect how much and the rate at which people sweat. However, there are some basic things to be aware of. If you’re working outside in direct sun, in warm or hot conditions, then you’re likely to sweat more than in cold conditions.

Clothing is also important; if you can, wear clothes that ‘breathe’ and alleviate the effects of the heat, rather than exacerbate them. In some work environments, you’ll be required to wear heavy, full-length garments and PPE for safety reasons. If this is the case, raise this as part of your risk assessment processes.

In fact, dehydration is often an overlooked risk. Your site might have a heat policy, but dehydration is an ever-present danger when performing strenuous labour. The good news is that it’s a relatively easy one to mitigate. It’s a good idea to always have a drink close at hand, take regular breaks and make sure your site is well stocked with powered and liquid electrolyte concentrates – particularly as we get into summer. A good rule of thumb is to listen to your body: if you’re thirsty, or have been sweating, have a drink!

REPLENISH & HYDRATE

The main benefit you get from powdered or liquid electrolyte concentrates is that you are replenishing your body of the sodium and minerals that it has lost due to sweat, at a much faster rate than just drinking water. The sodium content in these concentrates triggers your thirst mechanism, which encourages fluid intake while simultaneously increasing absorption and fluid retention. Therefore, keeping you hydrated for longer.

DEHYDRATION SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

During the summer months, Australia can experience long periods of extreme heat, therefore dehydration can occur quickly.

Many people will wait until they are thirsty before they have a drink, however this means they have already entered the early stages of dehydration.

Here a some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

EXTREME THIRST DRY MOUTH SWOLLEN TONGUE

LESS URINATION HEADACHE FATIGUE

BAD BREATH DIZZINESS PALPITATIONS

For more information on how to keep hydrated during the warmer months visit healthywa.wa.gov.au