Page 83 - OHS, June 2023

Caffffeinatedbeverages.AccordingtoHarvard,“Although caffffeine has long been thought to have a diuretic effffect, potentially leading to dehydration, research does not fully support this.”6 ThThough urine output can decrease with too much caffffeine, that doesn’t mean it will cause dehydration. In fact, NIOSH says that “The amount of caffeine in tea, coffee, and soft drinks probably will not have an effect on overall hydration.”7 Energy drinks. Some workers turn to energy drinks to help them get through the day, but one of the significant ingredients in these beverages is caffeine, per the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Alcohol. Consuming alcohol before or during work hours is extremely dangerous. Not only does inebriation lead to changes in coordination, impaired judgment and dizziness—which negatively affects a worker’s ability to do their job safely—but it also brings about dehydration, per NIOSH. Sports drinks. When people sweat, their bodies can lose salts, or electrolytes. Although NIOSH says water and meals should help keep electrolyte levels even, in cases of extreme sweating, sports drinks can be utilized. But drink too much and your calorie intake will also increase. In addition, the consumption of salt tablets to replenish lost salt is not recommended by NIOSH. All in all, other options for hydration do exist, but, in NIOSH’s words, “Water will almost always maintain hydration during work in the heat, as long as you eat regular meals to replace salt lost in sweat.” ThThis article is meant solely for educational purposes and not to provide medical advice. Please seek medical attention or advice from a professional if you are concerned about your health or have questions about hydration. Alex Saurman is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety magazine. REFERENCES 1. communityenvironment.unl.edu/be-smart-and-stay-hydrated-beat- heat#:~:text=The%20combination%20of%20hot%2C%20humid,to%20 drink%20water%20every%20day 2. www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-much-water-should-you- drink 3. www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat/Pages/urine-colour- chart.aspx#:~:text=5%20to%206%3A%20Dehydrated,3%20glasses%20 of%20water%20now. 4. www.nmt.edu/academics/mining/faculty/rog-research/education/water. pdf 5. www.usada.org/athletes/substances/nutrition/fluids-and- hydration/#:~:text=Overhydrated%3A%20Almost%20clear%20yellow 6. www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/water/ 7. www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/userfiles/works/pdfs/2017-126.pdf Blowers & Fans Certified for Safety For Hazardous & Non-Hazardous Locations Why Look For A Fan Or Blower’s Electrical Certification? US OSHA, along with almost all major countries in the world, require independent recognized certification laboratory testing for all AC electrical devices. Each fan or blower must meet local and international electrical codes and be equipped with the proper mechanical safety devices. Air Systems is proud to offer CSA/US (USA & Canada) and CE certified fans and blowers which have been independently tested to assure safety for our customers. 8” & 12” Standard & Explosion-Proof Axial Fans 8” Standard & Explosion-Proof Centrifugal Blowers 10” In-Line Steel Axial Fans Innovative Confined Space Ventilation Products Since 1984! Phone (800) 866-8100 or (757) 424-3967 www.airsystems.com sales@airsystems.com Visit us at Safety 2023 San Antonio Booth 611 wwUwn.toitlhesd-o4nl1ine.com JUNE 2023 | Occupational Health &5/S12a/f2e3ty5:21 P8M1