The blazing high temperatures of the summertime can be rough on the human body. If you don’t work in a climate–controlled environment, then you have to take extra steps to stay safe and cool once temperatures start climbing into the 80s and beyond.
If you can’t escape the heat, you shouldn’t let it stop you. There are a number of simple things you can do to keep cool, healthy and productive. Consider the following steps.
1) Drink Lots of Water
This may appear to be a simple choice, but you’d be surprised how some people do not properly hydrate in warm weather. A good rule of thumb is the 8–by–8 rule: Drink eight, 8-ounce glasses of water each day.
2) Avoid Excessive Caffeine and Alcohol
For many people, several cups of coffee during the day and a glass of wine at night is part of their daily routine, and changing this routine can be difficult. If you want to beat the heat, you should avoid caffeine and alcohol as much as possible. These diuretics remove water from your body and make you more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.
3) Get a Fan
Whether you’re working inside or outside, airflow is essential to beating the heat. For outdoor workers, large industrial floor fans can move a lot of cooling air, and some outdoor fans even have a misting feature!
For indoor workers, a desk of oscillating floor fan can make a world of difference.
4) Strategic Cooling
If you’re stuck in the heat and aren’t capable of escaping to a cool zone, applying a cold towel or ice pack to your ‘cooling points’ can help. Focus on cooling areas with lots of blood flow, like your wrists and neck. When you hit these cooling points, you’ll be capable of cooling down faster and more efficiently.
5) Slow Down
There’s usually a lot of pressure to work as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, when you’re in a very hot environment, moving around quickly can cause you to get overheated in a relatively short period of time.
This is a good time to point out that running around like a maniac isn’t always the best way to do your job. The old saying “slow down to speed up” suggests you can actually work faster if you think ahead and work as efficiently as possible, rather than as quickly as possible.
6) Dress for Success
Many people have jobs that dictate the type of clothes they wear. That said, there’s always room for changes to work attire when it comes to staying safe. Whenever possible, opt for lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing that reflects sunlight and allows air circulation.
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At NSC, we work with job seekers to help them find a work environment that works for them. Please contact us today to find out how we can help you stay safe and productive.