There is no doubt that you have to be strong and have tremendous physical stamina to work at a construction site. But even the heartiest construction worker can be undone by the summer heat. And it does not take long for the heat to take its toll. You can begin to experience the symptoms of heat stress after just a couple of hours of moderate work.
The symptoms of heat stress can start by affecting your concentration and strength and end in a loss of consciousness. So not only can heat stress cause the quality of your work to suffer, it could also be extremely hazardous to your physical well-being. If you should pass out while on a scaffold or ladder, you could be seriously or perhaps fatally injured.
Preventing dehydration is the key to avoiding heat stress. To this end, you want to make sure you get enough water throughout the day. And you should begin drinking water before you get thirsty. This is because once you experience the onset of thirst, you have already become partially dehydrated.
To remain properly hydrated, it is advised that you drink around 5 to 7 ounces of water, or other fluid, three to four times an hour. Cool water, which is 50 to 59 degrees, is best because it is more easily absorbed by the body.
Your employer should have plenty of water or carbohydrate/electrolyte liquids available and grant you the time to take a drink. By remaining hydrated you will be more productive and less vulnerable to injury.
As we move into the dog days of summer in New York City, dehydration and heat stress become more significant threats. Hopefully, you will be able to get the fluids you need and never have any serious issues. However, if you should suffer a dehydration-related injury, a workers’ compensation attorney could act as your representative in pursuing fair recompense for medical expenses and other relevant damages.