Don't Lose Your Cool. Manage Work Place and Athlete Heat Stress.

Sometimes we only use the air temperature as a measure of how comfortable we will feel when working or playing outside. But when the days get longer and the sun becomes stronger we need to take into account a lot more than air temperature.

Heat-induced illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke occur when your body can't keep itself cool. The evaporation of sweat is slowed on hot and humid days causing your body temperature to rise and become ill.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

• Dizziness, Headache, Weakness, Nausea
• Rapid Heartbeat, Cramps, Chest Pain
• Labored Breathing, Lack of Sweating
• Mood changes such as irritability or confusion
• High fever (104°F and Higher) for Heat Stroke Victims

Preventing Heat Stress

• Know signs/symptoms of heat-related illnesses; monitor yourself and coworkers
• Block out direct sun or other heat sources
• Rest regularly
• Drink lots of water; about 1 cup every 15 minutes
• Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothes
• Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, or heavy meals

And most importantly….Monitor the conditions you are in with a Heat Stress Meter
These meters measure how hot it REALLY feels outside when humidity is combined with temperature, air movement and radiant heat.

What is WBGT or Wet Bulb Globe Temperature?
WBGT index is a term used in industry, sports and other areas to indicate the heat stress level for humans and animals. It calculates the heat stress of direct sunlight, which takes into ac¬count temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover. This type of meter com¬bines these factors into a single number so you can quickly take into account the conditions you are in.

What is Black Globe Temperature (GT)?
Skin can burn when it comes in contact with exposed machinery, tools and containers left in hot direct sunlight. Black Globe Temperature represents the integrated effects of radiation and wind on these objects.