Hydration in Confined Spaces
Hydration is often a forgotten element of safety in a confined space. With so many potential hazards during confined space entry, loss of water because of sweating isn't high on the list for many workers. However, hydration is just as important as many of the other safety considerations of a confined space project.
Fluids lost in a hot environment, or because entrants are wearing protective, and non-breathable clothing, must be replaced to help prevent heat-related injuries.
To prevent heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke have each team member drink water or sport drinks to replace electrolytes both before and after entry. Remember to start hydrating early since it can take up to 20 minutes before the liquid is available for the body to use.
After exiting the confined space, the entry team as well as others working in the same conditions, should hydrate even if they don't feel thirsty. Thirst is not always a reliable dehydration indicator. If team members wait until they feel thirsty they may already be well on their way to heat related problems.
Recent Posts
-
ANSI/ISEA 138 Safety Gloves: Ensuring Hand Protection
The human hand is an anatomical masterpiece and arguably the greatest tool attached to our bodies …Jun 25th 2024 -
June 2024: National Safety Month
June is recognized as National Safety Awareness Month and focuses to help "keep each other safe f …Jun 4th 2024 -
10 Ways to Prevent Wildfires
You can prevent wildfires by extinguishing flames before you leave the worksite. Avoid practicing …Jun 3rd 2024