Body is always generating heat and passing it to environment. The harder your body is working, the more heat it has to lose. When the environment is hot or humid or has a source of radiant heat, your body must work harder to get environment. If air is moving and it is cooler than your body, it is easier for your body to pass heat to environment. Workers on medications or as per existing medical conditions may be more susceptible to heat stress.

To avoid heat stress and heat stress hazards like-sunburn, heat rash, heat cramps, fainting, heat stroke, take few steps: Light summer clothing should be worn to allow free air movement and sweat evaporation. Outside, wear light-coloured clothing.

Hot very hot environment, air, water or ice-cooled insulated clothing should be considered. Vapour barrier clothing, such as chemical protective clothing, greatly increases the amount of heat stress on the body, and extra caution is necessary.

Caution workers to avoid direct sunlight. Wash regularly to keep skin clean and dry.

Work in the shade; cover skin with clothing; apply skin lotions with a sun protection factor. Pregnant women with a medical condition should discuss working in the heat with their doctor.

Drink a glass of cool water every thirty minutes. Reduce activity levels and or heat exposure. Reduce the temperature and humidity through air cooling.

The employer should assess the demands of all jobs and have monitoring and control strategies in place for hot days and hot workplaces.

Eat green vegetables and salted foods. Massage and stretch the muscles in the morning time.

Drink more lime-water and fresh fruit juices in hot weather. Take one tea spoon of Gulukand with cool milk twice daily. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. Exercise early in the morning or later in the day. Take time to rest during your activity. Take care of your children during hot weather. Consult your doctor immediately in emergency.

Dr Anil Dheer