The U.S. Department of Labor has provided recommendations about fluid intake when working outdoors in the heat of summer. This is timely because of the heat wave in many parts of the country this summer.
The Department focused on what employers should do to limit the risk of dehydration among employees working in the heat. They point out that “proper hydration is essential to prevent heat related illness.”
Employers are urged to “provide cool water for workers to drink.” They state, “for short jobs, cool potable water is sufficient; workers should be encouraged to drink at least one cup (8 ounces) of water every 20 minutes while working in the heat not just when they are thirsty.”
If an employee is working for more than 2 hours in the heat, they should be provided “electrolyte-containing beverages such as sports drinks.” This is because “workers lose salt and other electrolytes when they sweat.”
Otherwise, they may “develop muscle cramps and other dangerous health problems.” Also, workers should take a break every hour, ideally in the shade.
Although the Department of Labor’s recommendations apply to responsibilities employers have for their employees who work in hot environments, this advice is relevant to anyone doing outside work in the heat. An example would be someone working on their own property.
