Masonry Magazine June 2001 Page. 42
With regard to the weather, the typical response is the selection of appropriate clothes. However, clothing may not be an option or the selection may not be sufficient to avoid danger. Certain operations require protective equipment or clothing. Clothing designed to keep chemicals out will keep heat in. Respirators used to protect against hazardous substances such as silica dust, increase stress.
There are also other factors to consider. For example age and physical condition have an effect on the way a body manages heat. The cardiovascular system of an older person may not be able to handle the extra strain caused by the increase in heart rate. Obese or stocky individuals produce more heat. In addition, they have a smaller surface area to body size ratio. This decreases their ability to release heat. The body also adjusts to the environment over time. Individuals that are not accustomed to heat will feel the affects much sooner than others. Drinking alcohol dehydrates the body which affects perspiration and the body's ability to cool itself.
Finally, airflow and humidity are important. Wind increases evaporation and the cooling affect from perspiration. Humidity decreases evaporation rates. You will notice perspiration less on a windy day and more on a humid day.
Since you cannot control the weather, you must manage the other factors. Use common sense. Ensure employees dress appropriately for the weather, but don't forget about the hazards faced from the work performed. If long sleeves or other protective clothing are needed to keep dust or corrosive substances away from the skin, wear light-colored clothing. Control the amount of activity and schedule work around the weather. Set up work/rest cycles to allow cooling off periods. Over a period of about 6 days gradually increase activity and decrease rest periods allowing employees to adjust to higher temperatures. Warn employees to avoid alcohol the evening before a day when heat may be a factor. Make sure there are plenty of nonalcoholic fluids available on the job site.
Keep a watch for heat disorders. Heat stroke is the worst. The body fails to regulate its core temperature. Perspiration stops. Other symptoms include 1) mental confusion, loss of consciousness, or convulsions; (2) a body temperature of 106 degrees For higher; and (3) hot dry skin which may be red, mottled, or bluish. The victim can die. Get medical help. Remove the victim to a cool area and soak the clothing with cool water. Heat exhaustion results from loss of fluid. The victim will perspire, but will be weak and may be giddy, nauseous and/or have a headache. Let the victim rest in a cool place and provide a drink with electrolytes, like a sports drink to replace body salts. In severe cases the victim may require medical treatment. Fainting which results from heat is called heat syncope. Workers who stand still are more susceptible to this. If it occurs have the victim lie down for a while. Heat rash, or prickly heat, may result when perspiration is allowed to remain on the skin. It is uncomfortable and infection is a concern. Periodically resting in cool area allowing the skin to dry may prevent the rash.
These disorders can be avoided. Heat shouldn't ruin your summer. Monitor the weather, think safety, and enjoy!
42 MASONRY JUNE, 2001
WIRE-BOND
We're a North Carolina-based family-owned business serving the needs of masons nationwide for over twenty-five years. Our Wire-Bond masonry reinforcement products and accessories are designed to be "mason friendly", utilizing methods and materials to make the mason's job more efficient and easier.
Here are some products designed with the mason in mind:
The Wire-Bond Clip: Use It On Shaky Ground!
• Designed for adjustable veneer systems in seismic applications. Straight-and-cut wire installs easily into clip for strong continuous system.
• Available with all our adjustable systems and meets UBC for seismic zones.
Hook Shield: The Mortar Stops Here!
Completely different approach to stopping excess mortar. Installs easily with any adjustable system on any veneer anchoring system.
• Rigid plastic construction supported by stability of double hook.
• Avoids mortar buildup in the cavity and allows moisture to exit through weeps/vents.
Copper Aqua Flash: Finally, Rubberized Asphalt And Copper!
• Combines rubberized asphalt and copper in one installation.
• Self-adhering surface for quick and easy installtion. Self-sealing with excellent puncture and abrasion resistance. Works on masonry, concrete, steel, wood and gypsum.
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www.wirebond.com
Masonry Reinforcing Corp. of America
Innovation In Masonry Construction
1-800-849-MRCA (6722)