Water makes up roughly 70% of our body weight. Keeping our water levels where they need to be is something many people overlook as a hazard. Dehydration should not only be of concern during the summer months with excessive heat – it should always be on our minds. Proper hydration will help your bodily functions too. Dehydration can allow workers to succumb to temperature and environmental extremes more quickly than someone who is properly hydrated. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you may need to rehydrate: dry mouth, excessive thirst, fatigue, reduced urination, headache, constipation, sweet tooth, bad breath, dizziness, pain in the muscles. Proper hydration is essential to a safe workforce!
Know the Risks
Dehydration is a key contributor to daytime fatigue. Fatigue was a contributing factor in 13% of workplace incidents, according to the National Safety Council. Fatigued workers are more likely to be involved in workplace accidents, making them a danger to themselves and their coworkers.
Short term memory loss has been attributed to dehydration as well; a mere 2% decrease in the body’s water level has been shown to affect one’s short-term memory.
Drinking commercial sports drinks alone can lead to dehydration because of the excess electrolytes.
Keys to Keep You Safe
Do not rely on your thirst to tell you when to drink water. The amount of water you should drink in a day is based your body weight. Generally, divide your weight by two, that equals the number of ounces of water you should drink in a day.
Your urine can indicate your hydration level; if you notice your urine is darker, that means you are dehydrated, and it would help to up your water intake. This should not be the only way you measure your level of hydration.
Commercial sports drinks are a good way to help you rehydrate because they contain electrolytes, but they should not be the only thing you drink, make sure you drink water as well.
Drinks that contain caffeine like coffee, black tea, and energy drinks dehydrate the body more quickly, avoid excessive caffeine to stay hydrated longer.