Carter, Anthony, Muller, Reinhold, and Roberts, Stephen (2006) The hydration status and needs of workers at a north-west Queensland fertilizer plant. Journal of Occupational Health and Safety: Australia and New Zealand, 22 (1). pp. 73-82.

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Abstract

The aims of this article were to assess fluid loss rates and to develop fluid intake targets for workers in a harsh (hot and dry) environment. This prospective observational study recruited 127 workers from the WMC Fertilizers operations at Phosphate Hill during September 2002 and February 2003. A series of assessments was made (including am and pm urine specific gravity and weight measurements and fluid intake measurements), and a questionnaire relating to hydration and urinary and faecal excretion was used. Detailed workplace and body weight specific fluid input targets were developed. Workers in direct sunlight lost significantly more fluid and were less likely to maintain their fluid balance compared with those working in air conditioning or shade. Two thirds of the participants arrived dehydrated for their shifts. This research provides specific evidence-based hydration guidelines for workers in harsh environments and highlights the importance of facilities and behaviours away from the workplace to optimally hydrate workers.

Item ID:	3833
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	0815-6409
Keywords:	dehydration; water; mining; heat stress; specific gravity
Related URLs:	http://www.cch.com.au/au/MarketingPromo/...
Additional Information:	Title of the journal changed from "Journal of Occupational Health and Safety: Australia and New Zealand" to "Journal of Health, Safety and Environment" since 2010.
Date Deposited:	24 Nov 2009 05:58
FoR Codes:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111705 Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety @ 100%
SEO Codes:	92 HEALTH > 9205 Specific Population Health (excl. Indigenous Health) > 920504 Occupational Health @ 100%
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