13 workers treated for heat exhaustion in UAE

Ras Al Khaimah - People working at open areas were urged to drink plenty of fluids and juices.

As many as 13 workers have been treated for heat exhaustion at the emergency and accident department of the Umm Al Quwain hospital since May. Following this, the hospital has carried out awareness campaigns to bring down the number of heat exhaustion cases, according to an official at the hospital.
"Lectures were delivered, practical exercises on the prevention and treatment of heat exhaustion and drought were done, brochures were distributed in several languages, and free medical consultations were provided."
High temperatures and humidity lead to the release of large amounts of sweat out of the body which we call dehydration. This results in several complications like heat exhaustion, acute muscle contractions and sun stroke.
People working at open areas were urged to drink plenty of fluids and juices, and avoid direct exposure to the sun, especially in the afternoon.
The UAQ civil defence department has, meanwhile, paid visits to the construction sites at the industrial area where cold water and juices, caps and shirts were distributed to 420 workers.
"The move is meant to protect those workers from heat exhaustion," said Lt-Col Dr Salem Hamad, acting director of the UAQ civil defence department.
"The campaign aims at enhancing public safety procedures, and spreading preventive culture among all members and institutions of the society to ensure health and occupational safety at work places."
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com  

• Ras Al Khaimah