Relating Ambient Heat to Site Clinic Visits for Heat-Related Symptoms Among Four Middle Eastern Aluminum Smelters
Thomas E Bernard1, Gummanur Manjunath2, James C Wesdock3
1College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa FL USA.
Objective:
This study aimed to describe the relation between clinic visits for symptoms of heat-related illness (heat-related visits [HRV]) and ambient Heat Index among aluminum smelters in the Arab Gulf States.
Methods:
Four smelters provided HRV data. Meteorological data from nearby airports provided data for Heat Index (HI). Three approaches to finding a smelter-specific trigger for heat stress management were examined.
Results:
The rate ratios from Poisson regressions were 1.2/°C for one smelter, 1.1/°C for two others, and 0.96 (not significant) for the fourth; all showed no carry-over effect from preceding day. Using a logistic distribution provided a reasonable trigger.
Conclusions:
HRVs increased with the Heat Index for three of the four smelters. In this limited study, the trigger point based on the logistic distribution at P = 0.05 was the most protective.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Factors Affecting Body Temperature
Factors may include:
01:19Homeostatic Imbalances in Body Temperature
01:25Increased Body Temperature
01:29Decreased Body Temperature
01:14Temperature Measurement Sites
Oral: When assessing oral temperature, the thermometer tip should be placed under the tongue in the posterior sublingual pocket. It offers accurate readings and can be...
01:19Assessing Body Temperature - Temporal Artery
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don a fresh pair of gloves to prevent cross-infection and ensure patient safety.
Step 2: Explain the procedure to the patient to establish trust. Clear communication establishes trust with the patient, ensures they understand what to expect, promotes cooperation, and enhances comfort during the procedure.
Step 3: Assess the patient's...