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.
wear heavy, full-length garments and PPE for
Dehydration takes effect remarkably quickly
dehydration is an ever-present danger when
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.
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
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
UNDERSTANDING THE RISK
body: if you’re thirsty, or have been sweating,
There are many factors that affect how much
have a drink!
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
12
Heatleys Trade TALK
