Click
on the link below to submit a Safety
Report Form to our Division Safety
Representatives Dave Hanifl and Art
Gillham
BLE-13
Safety Reporting Form
Tips to
Beat the Heat
BNSF Today - July 19, 2001
Scorching temperatures across portions of
BNSF's network are taking their toll, and
since summer is just getting into full
swing, employees should review safety and
health precautions for hot weather. Heat
stress, which occurs when hot weather,
humidity or exertion add heat faster than
the body can get rid of it, can be
prevented by doing the following:
* Eat well-balanced meals and get
adequate sleep to help maintain the
body's heat regulatory system. Minimize
alcohol consumption several days before
working in hot, humid weather. Alcohol
promotes the loss of water from your
body, contributing to dehydration.
* Wear loose-fitting clothing that
will promote air circulation and the
evaporation of perspiration.
* Drink plenty of fluids. Thirst is
not an adequate indicator of how much
fluid your body needs. Drink seven to
eight ounces of water every 15 minutes
during periods of heat load. Avoid sugary
drinks like soda, and caffeinated drinks
like coffee. Sugar facilitates the loss
of electrolytes, and caffeine promotes
dehydration.
(Electrolyte drink mixes are available in
single packets that can be easily
prepared in BNSF's blue, 12-ounce water
bottles. They are sold by the case and
can be ordered through Vallen Safety
Supply Co. with a BNSF item ID number.)
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