(photo by cottonbro studio)
Acclimation is the process of gradually increasing your workload and exposing yourself to the heat over a period of time.
Tradespeople and construction workers are known for their strong work ethic and enthusiastic pride toward their work. There is a natural inclination to want to jump in and get the job done. However, when it comes to working in hot conditions, that enthusiasm comes with significant risks.
Taking the necessary time to acclimate to the heat is not just beneficial; it’s a critical safety measure that could be lifesaving. By gradually increasing the workload over 1-2 weeks, taking at least 2 hours of exposure per day, and cooling off and rehydrating between shifts, workers can acclimate effectively.
NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) recommends the following acclimatization schedule:
For NEW WORKERS:
– 1st day: 20% of usual work durations
– 2nd day: 40% of usual work duration
– 3rd day: 60% of usual work duration
– 4th day: 80% of usual work duration
– 5th day: 100% of usual work duration
For workers with previous experience returning from absence, NIOSH recommends the following acclimatization schedule:
– 1st day: 50% of usual work duration
– 2nd day: 60% of usual work duration
– 3rd day: 80% of usual work duration
– 4th day: 100% of usual work duration
If you’re away from the heat for too long, your acclimation will start to decline. 1-3 days in cooler conditions will not hurt acclimatization but after one week, it begins to decline. After one month, most people return to baseline.
Here are some tips for acclimation:
- Don’t push yourself to the point of heat exhaustion – that won’t help speed up acclimitazation.
- The more intense or longer your shifts, the more time you need to acclimate.
- Stay hydrated, replenish those electrolytes.
- Keep active in your daily life helps with the acclimatization process.
Acclimatization is essential for maintaining well-being and ensuring that both new and seasoned workers can perform their duties safely and effectively.
Read more about heat stress prevention worksites here and all about electrolytes here.
Are you more of a visual learner? Watch our expert led webinar on “Heat Stress on Worksites” here.
Browse our heat stress HERE.
Sources:
- https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/acclima.htm
