WORKING IN EXTREME TEMPERATURES

The extreme heat of the air and the increase in the amount of humidity bring some risks, especially for those who work physically in dangerous and very dangerous jobs, despite their advanced age.

As the adaptation mechanisms in the elderly do not work well enough, they may have difficulty in adapting to the changes in temperature and humidity in the environment.

In scientific studies, it has been shown that sudden temperature changes and high humidity in summer can cause life-threatening conditions, especially in elderly women and men over 65 years of age.

What causes extreme heat in the elderly?

As a result of the rising temperature, the body temperature also increases, but our body starts to sweat and breathe more frequently to balance the increased body temperature. During this time, water and salt are lost through sweating and respiration.

The pulse accelerates, the workload of the heart increases, the load on the kidneys increases. There is a tendency to clot in the veins. In the skin and end organs (hand, foot, and facial muscles), both arteries and veins dilate. As a result of the enlargement of these vessels, more blood will go to the skin and end organs, and the amount of blood going to the internal organs and therefore to the heart decreases. This causes the heart to work harder and faster than necessary.

Unpredictable changes (too low or too high) in blood pressure may occur. High humidity rate relatively reduces the amount of oxygen in the inhaled air. Oxygenation of the blood becomes more difficult. Serious health problems can be seen in cardiovascular patients, those with heart failure, high blood pressure, heart rhythm problems, and those with varicose veins, especially in those who work at an advanced age (>45 and above).

Precautions to be taken at workplaces

Working shifts can be arranged according to the hot hours of the day. If such an arrangement cannot be made, it would be beneficial to take measures to shorten the working time under the sun per person by supporting the team that will work under the sun. If possible, work that needs to be done outside can be scheduled early in the day and late in the evening.

Working and rest periods can be revised and adjusted to maximise efficiency according to the weather and the working environment.

It is necessary to avoid strenuous physical activities in hot weather and hot environments (more than 26 degrees Celsius). If possible, work should be done later in the day and after the weather has cooled down or after the ambient temperature has been reduced to normal levels.

It is necessary to be protected from sudden temperature changes in working environments. The working environment must be well ventilated. If possible, air conditioning should be done, but the environment should not be too cold. (A normal room temperature should be 24 degrees.)

Work clothes should be thin and absorb sweat (cotton). When you sweat, be careful not to dry your sweat under the air conditioner. If possible, avoid contact of the body with damp clothing by changing clothes frequently. Change of clothes can be taken between working hours.

Plenty of fluids should be consumed. At least 2-3 litres per day for normal individuals. Fluid intake is recommended. This amount should be increased even more for those who work physically in a hot environment. Clean, slightly cold, and always accessible and sufficient water sources should be provided. It would be appropriate to increase fluid consumption with soda, buttermilk, and fruit juices to ensure the fluid and electrolyte balance of the employee.

Avoid heavy and oily foods during lunch break or shift meals, take care to eat little but often. A more fruit-based diet would be appropriate. Succulents as a supplement during rest breaks increase working efficiency.

It is appropriate for those with chronic diseases to be followed up regularly by the workplace physician, to use drugs regularly, not to work alone, and to be checked with a physician's report revealing their health status.

Compensation can be claimed if employees become ill due to adverse conditions in the workplace. You can learn about the process by contacting personal injury lawyers in Sydney