Dehydration

Fluid and salt lost through sweating in hot work and not replaced, leading to fatigue, cramps and heat illness.

Also known as: Fluid loss, Inadequate hydration, Inadequate fluid intake

How to control dehydration

Provide cool, clean drinking water close to the work area, and make it easy to refill throughout the shift.
Encourage workers to drink small amounts often rather than waiting until they feel thirsty.
Schedule regular rest breaks in shade, and increase them as temperature, humidity and workload rise.
Limit caffeinated and sugary drinks during hot work, and consider electrolyte drinks for long shifts with heavy sweating.
Teach workers to check urine colour and to recognise headache, dizziness and cramps as early signs of dehydration.

Typical controls, most effective first. Your SWMS sets the controls for your own job and site.