How to Work in Hot Weather
Whether working in an office processing documents or performing outdoor, there are various reasons why it is important to take extra care when working in very high temperatures. There’s nothing worse than preparing yourself a full day’s work only to find that you are too tiered, sweaty or sick to complete it. What will follow is guide outlining tried and tested ways to complete a day’s work in the heat whilst staying comfortable, fresh and healthy.
Hot day? Hot bathe
Hot baths are used by millions around the world to feel cool in searing conditions. As the body is soaked or drenched in warm / hot water the heat relaxes the muscles which are contracted due to high temperatures, in turn blood vessels are also relaxed and blood flow is increased throughout the whole body. This is what gives the feeling of being cooler, it is also a process that cannot be achieved by taking a cool bath. Following this basic point before going to work will ensure you have a cooler calmer day.
You are what you wear
There are plenty of styles and materials that cater to working in muggy conditions that won’t leave you feeling over heated. Whilst working in a hot office the materials of choice should be linen, cotton and other natural materials. These fabrics absorb moisture whilst allowing your body to breath. Another unusual choice is wool, although most wools are usually associated with winter weather since they trap in heat and generally heat up the body, there are wools such as tropical weight wool which act in the same way as cotton and linen. In warm weather take care to avoid synthetic materials such as nylon as they also trap in the heat.
The cut, style and the colour of clothes can also be the difference between cool calm and collected and hot stressed and sweaty. When choosing lined suites, opt for partially lined (unconstructed) rather than fully lined suites that fit less snug than what you would usually wear, this gives your body room to breathe and allows air to circulate between your body and clothes. Lastly, wearing bright pale clothes also reduces the affects the sun has on your body temperature. Brighter colours don’t attract sunlight like dark colours do, leaving you feeling cooler.
For those working outdoors during hot seasons there is a heigher level of health related risks than working indoors. Cases of fatigue, dizziness, overheating, burning of the skin and dehydration are common effects of over exposure to the sun. It’s easy to think that in these circumstances the best thing to do is to strip off. This should be avoided due to the risk of skin cancer caused by the sun’s rays. Sun cream is recommended as a form of protection but covering up is highly advised. Another option is ware very light loose clothing when working outdoors. Increase water intake and take frequent breaks to avoid over exertion.
Good ‘ol water
Drinking water is a must and has many benefits which don’t only pertain to hot days but also add to your general wellbeing. In an average day our bodies need an intake of 2.5 litres in order function properly. When temperatures elevate past the norm its essential to stay well hydrated which will allows your body to maintain higher energy levels, it’s also said that a high intake of water improves concentration levels which means you can say good bye to the feeling of wanting to snooze after lunch.
Icy wrists
A method you might not be familiar with when trying to stay cool at work is cooling your wrists. Although wrists are the more common place to find your pulse there are many areas in which your pulse can be located. These areas have blood vessels and veins located close to the surface of the skin which is perfect for the application of cooling agents such as water or ice, which will cool off blood and body temperatures when applied.
During a lunch break why not use these following quick steps to stay cool at work:
