In works exposed to extreme temperatures or in ones requiring considerable effort, hydration plays a key role and staying hydrated affect health positively as well as safety indirectly.
Frequent hydration, indipendently from thirst, helps body performances as follows
- greater muscular efficiency
- adequate body temperature regulation
- mental effort rise
- lucidity and responsiveness preservation
To avoid dehydration is important to understand ominous signs like
- dry mouth
- sleepiness
- tiredness
- thirst
- headache
- dizziness
- muscular spasms
- weakness
- loss of concentration
- responsiveness slowdown
- limbs extremities temperature decreasing
A useful system to prevent such symptoms is hydration assessment trough urine check and, basing on its color, drink as needed. Sticking a urine colors infographic close to toilet fixtures could be helpful for this purpose.
Stay awake and responsive on the job: don’t wait thirst, drink in advance!
See attached Cleveland Clinic infographic and picture.