Common Terms for Heat Impact:
Understanding the distinctions between commonly used terms like heat stress and heat strain is crucial.
Heat Stress:Heat stress refers to the overall heat load imposed on the body, originating from various factors such as:
- Ambient air temperature
- Radiant heat emitted by external sources like vehicles, equipment, and hot-work processes
- Air circulation
- Relative humidity
- Specific task requirements, including the need for a respirator or wearing multiple layers of clothing
- Metabolic heat generated by the body due to physical activity.
Heat Strain:Heat strain, on the other hand, delves into how the body reacts to heat stress. These responses primarily focus on expelling heat from the body and are influenced by:
- Physical fitness
- Acclimatization level
- Existing medical conditions
- Age
- Overall health status
- Body weight
- Hydration level
- Use of certain drugs or medications.
Understanding these terms is essential for WorCover Queensland to effectively address and manage heat-related concerns in the workplace.