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We talk a lot about injuries after they happen, but we can do more to talk about them beforehand to prevent them altogether. Injury prevention can take many forms. In the past few years, we have used some types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for prevention against COVID-19. Now that we are entering the summer months, it raises another issue that often correlates with workplace injuries: fatigue, often due to rising temperatures.
As one of the top work-related injuries according to the National Safety Council, exposure to temperature extremes means it is important to stay hydrated and get enough fluids and electrolytes to prevent impairment and further injuries from occurring.Here are some best practices to keep you safe, hydrated and cool as the temperatures rise this summer:
- On average, a healthy person should drink 11.5 to 15.5 cups of water per day according to the Mayo Clinic.
- Stay away from sugary drinks.
- Limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest, like morning and evening hours.
- Wear sunscreen: Many brands recommend reapplying every two hours.
- When taking a break, go to a shaded area or cool off in a building.
- Consider providing hats, sweatbands or cooling bands to employees.
- Consider adding, replacing or upgrading industrial fans in your facilities.
Kimball Midwest offers a line of Sqwincher products to help you with these best practices. Both the Sqwincher Drink Mixes and Sqweeze™ Pops help prevent heat-related injury, replace lost electrolytes, rehydrate 98% faster than water, are available in sugar-free options, have multiple sizes and come in many flavors.
Besides staying hydrated, fighting fatigue and preventing injuries, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends getting enough sleep (7-9 hours) and moving often when in the same position for long periods of time. If you do find yourself in the same position for extended amounts of time, take note of what would make your workplace more comfortable. For example, if you are kneeling often, kneepads could help prevent knee fatigue and injury.
If you notice any improvements that could be made to your workplace to fight fatigue and prevent injuries from occurring, contact your sales representative to see how Kimball Midwest can help keep you safe. If you don’t have a representative, we can help you 
