Our bodies are the main source of heat that may stress us. Three-fourths of the energy you convert for physical work turns into heat, only one-fourth into motion. When your body is active, it usually generates more heat than it needs and therefore has to release some.
Our body’s functions depend on blood circulation and many chemical reactions. The body has natural ways of gaining or losing heat to maintain that “normal” temperature.
When we produce heat that raises internal temperatures our heart rate increases and our vessels expand in order to bring more blood to the layer of skin where the heat is released.
When more blood goes toward our body surface for cooling, less is available to serve our muscles, brain and other internal organs.
The single best way to reduce our heat stress risks while working is to steadily replenish the water you lose as sweat. Drinking small amounts frequently, such as 6 to 8 ounces every 15 minutes, is more effective than large amounts less often.
