Page 82 - OHS, June 2023

SUMMER HAZARDS Every 15 to 20 minutes, employees in hot temperatures should drink eight ounces of water. status, a trip to the restroom can provide a quick answer that might tell you what your body needs. Let’s take a look at what the color of your urine means in terms of hydration, according to the New South Wales Ministry of Health (NSW Health) and New Mexico Tech (NMT).3,4 Pale or light yellow. Urine that is pale or light yellow indicates that you’re well hydrated. However, continue to drink water regularly to maintain this level of hydration. If you notice completely clear urine, you may be overhydrated, per the United States Anti-Doping Agency.5 Slightly darker yellow. When urine output is a little darker than a pale or light yellow, per NSW Health, you’re “mildly hydrated,” so drinking eight ounces of water once you learn this is suggested. “Amber or honey” yellow. Starting to notice that your urine is getting darker? ThThat might be a sign to drink up. According to the NMT, if your urine resembles the color of “amber or honey,” you should consume about 16 ounces “if you’re outside and/or sweating.” Very dark yellow. If your urine is extremely dark or is similar to the color of—as stated by NMT—“syrup or brown ale,” you may be seriously dehydrated. In this case, you need to consume water right away. Some sources, like NSW Health, recommend “a large bottle of water,” but others do not specify an exact amount. Employers, to encourage employees to check their urine color, consider hanging a urine color chart in rest areas or individual bathroom stalls. Can Other Drinks Besides Water Affect Hydration? Water is not the only drink most people consume throughout the day. People often choose what drink suits their needs or wants. Some might prefer energy drinks to help get them through a long shift while others may pick soda or a sweeter drink simply because they enjoy the beverage’s flavor. But when you’re working in hot temperatures, should these or other non-water drinks be avoided, and what effect does consuming them have on hydration? Download OH&S podcasts on the safety industry’s most essential topics! Select from more than 185 episodes of health & safety content! Subscribe or listen at ohsonline.com/safetypod 80 Occupational Health & Safety | JUNE 2023 Untitled-1 1 www.ohsonline.com 5/16/23 11:52 AM