Physiological Monitoring

DOE-EM-STD-5503-94

Closely monitor and modify/adjust work/rest worker schedules;

Maintain proper worker body fluids in both cold and hot weather by:

- Maintaining drinking water temperature at 50 to 60 F (10 to 15.6 C),

- Urging workers to drink 16 ounces of fluid before beginning work, and

- Urging workers to drink at least 4 ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes at each

monitoring break (1 to 1.6 gallons of water a day is recommended);

Weigh workers before and after each work session to determine if fluid

intake/replenishment is adequate;

Encourage workers to maintain an optimal level of physical fitness;

Encourage workers to maintain normal/constant weight (significant weight loss can be a

strong indication of physical problems);

Advise workers that heavy alcohol intake may significantly increase their risk of heat

stroke (i.e., dehydration);

Use cooling/heating devices that aid in natural body heat exchange, such as:

- Heating or cooling tents,

- Showers or hoses, and

- Cooling vests, jackets, or suits.

6.4.1. Physiological Monitoring

The worker's ability to physiologically adjust to work under temperature extreme conditions

affects his/her ability to perform work. Acclimatized workers have lower heart rates and body

temperatures, sweat more profusely than unacclimatized workers, and are, therefore, better able

to function in these specific working conditions. Managers need to be aware of the importance of

acclimatizing workers before they can be added to a regular work schedule. Although the

phenomenon of acclimatization is an important consideration for heat stress, it has not been

recognized for cold stress. The added burden of PPE may increase the time to acclimatize

workers.

Acclimatization can occur within a few days. NIOSH recommends a progressive, 6-day

acclimatization period for workers before allowing them to perform a full work load.

Under this regimen, the first day of work should be conducted using only 50% of the anticipated

workload and exposure time. This level should be increased 10% each day for the following 5

days.

Managers need to be aware that workers can lose their acclimatization, and that the work

regimen will need to be adjusted to accommodate these changes. Managers may determine that

other factors impact the acclimatization period, including the use of PPE and the relative fitness

of workers.

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