Occasionally at Stanford we experience high indoor temperatures. If a period of excessive heat extends more than a day or two withoutsignificant nighttime cooling, the problem becomes severe due to theheat retained in equipment, furniture, and walls. During the day thisretained heat continues to be released into the immediate environment asradiant heat, which, when added to a rising outside temperature, cancause indoor temperatures to get uncomfortably hot.
Air conditioning is a common solution, but this costs a lot and is notpossible in many areas. Therefore, you should look at your work area anddetermine what you can do to reduce the heat load on your body. The heatload depends upon a number of factors including:
* air temperature
* humidity
* clothing
* air velocity
* radiant heat
* physiological differences in people
So there doesn't have to be a massive heat wave to cause heat stress;many other factors play into it. Temperatures just above 90 degrees canbe dangerous, especially when the outdoor humidity is high.
Excessive heat can contribute to physical and mental changes. Thesechanges are early warning signs, alerting you to danger. Call yourdoctor or seek other assistance right away if these symptoms occur:
* dizziness
* vomiting
* hot, dry skin (no sweating)
* rapid heartbeat
* throbbing headache
* cramps and/ or chest pain
In order to keep cool during the hot months, the following measures canbe helpful:
- Dress in lightweight, light-colored natural fiber clothing (e.g., cotton)
- Eat light meals and avoid all alcoholic beverages
- During the hot periods take adequate rest breaks in an air conditioned area, in a shaded area outside, or in a cooler room such as a basement
- Drink water, taking small amounts often rather than large quantities at infrequent intervals
- Let each person set their own pace of work
- If the job includes heavy work, do this work during the coolest part of day
- Turn off machines when they are not in use, since they produce heat
- Increase ventilation by using fans-and blow the air over a tray of water to create a "swamp cooler" effect
- If an employee feels sick or does not look well, suggest that they take a break or go home.