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0 0 <br /> finally, a heat disorder may ensue. The severity of strain will depend not only on the <br /> . magnitude of the prevailing stress, but also on the age, physical fitness, degree of <br /> acclimatization, and dehydration of the worker. <br /> Heat disorder is a general term used to describe one or more of the following heat-related <br /> disabilities or illnesses: <br /> Heat Cramps - painful intermittent spasms of the voluntary muscles following hard physical <br /> work in a hot environment. Cramps usually occur after heavy sweating, and often begin at <br /> the end of a work shift. <br /> o Heat Exhaustion - profuse sweating, weakness, rapid pulse, dizziness, nausea, and <br /> headache. The skin is cool and sometimes pale and clammy with sweat. Body <br /> temperature is normal or subnormal. Nausea, vomiting, and unconsciousness may occur. <br /> o Heat Stroke - sweating is diminished or absent. The skin is hot, dry, and flushed. <br /> Increased body temperature, which, if uncontrolled, may lead to delirium, convulsions, <br /> coma, and even death. Medical care is urgently needed. <br /> 102.5 METHODS OF CONTROLLING HEAT STRESS <br /> As many of the following control measures as are appropriate to site conditions should be <br /> utilized to aid in controlling heat stress: <br /> • Provide for adequate liquids to replace lost body fluids and replace water and salt <br /> lost from sweating. Encourage personnel to drink more than the amount required to <br /> satisfy thirst. Thirst satisfaction is not an accurate indicator of adequate salt and <br /> fluid replacement. <br /> • Replace fluids with water, commercial mixes such as Gatorade or Quick Kick, or a <br /> combination of these. <br /> • Establish a work regimen that will provide adequate rest periods for cooling down. <br /> This may require additional shifts of workers. <br /> • Wear cooling devices such as vortex tubes or cooling vests beneath protective <br /> garments. <br /> • Take all breaks in a cool rest area (77F is best) <br /> • Remove impermeable protective garments during rest periods. <br /> • Do not assign other tasks to personnel during rest peiods. <br /> • Inform personnel of the importance of adequate rest, acclimation, and proper diet in <br /> the prevention of heat stress <br /> 2 <br />