Workers in Colorado are 39% more likely to experience heat-related illness from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
As Colorado heads into the warmer months, outdoor work and recreational activities surge, bringing hazards like dehydration and heat illness. We’re here to provide actionable steps to stay safe in the heat, including proactively monitoring their hydration levels using a simple, yet vital indicator: the color of your urine.
Claims data reveal heat-related illness trends
According to a new analysis of Pinnacol claims, during the months of May to August, workers are 39% more likely to experience heat-related illness. Claims are 95% more likely between 10 a.m. and noon, spiking at noon. Due to the nature of their work, these industries and professions face a heightened risk of dehydration:
- Police officers
- Outdoor recreation and tourism staff: Guides, instructors, and park employees working in the elements.
- Education professionals: Those working outdoors or in non-air-conditioned facilities during summer months.
- Firefighters
- Restaurant / fast food: Often working in hot environments with high physical demands.
"Staying properly hydrated is not just about quenching thirst; it's a fundamental aspect of workplace safety, especially here in Colorado," says Monica Cabrera, Pinnacol's Learning Safety Specialist. "The state's high elevation means thinner air, which can lead to faster dehydration. The intense Colorado sun results in high Ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels, further stressing the body and increasing the risk of heat-related injuries and illnesses.”
The Great Hydr8: Your body's hydration indicator in 8 shades
Pinnacol's "The Great Hydr8" campaign emphasizes the importance of using urine color as a quick and easy indicator of hydration levels:
- Pale straw yellow: This is the ideal color and indicates you are likely well-hydrated. Keep up your current fluid intake to maintain this healthy level.
- Light yellow: Generally acceptable, but be mindful of your activity level and the heat. Increase your fluid intake slightly, especially if you are working intensely or in direct sunlight.
- Dark yellow or amber: This is a warning sign that you are likely dehydrated and need to take immediate action. Stop what you are doing, find a cool place, and drink plenty of water or electrolyte-rich beverages. Continue to monitor your urine color.
- Honey or dark brown: This indicates severe dehydration and requires immediate attention. Seek medical help if you experience other symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, decreased urination, or rapid heartbeat.
Actionable guidance for staying safe in the heat:
We urge all workers, especially those in high-risk industries, to follow these proactive steps to stay hydrated and prevent heat-related illnesses:
- Hydrate early and often: Don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink. Sip water or electrolyte drinks throughout the day. Aim for regular intake, especially before, during, and after physical exertion.
- Carry water with you: Make sure you have access to water at all times, especially on job sites or during outdoor activities.
- Take regular breaks: Schedule short breaks in shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces to allow your body to cool down and rehydrate.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing to help your body regulate its temperature. Wear a hat and sunglasses for added protection from the sun.
- Be aware of peak heat times: Take extra precautions during the hottest parts of the day (typically mid-morning to mid-afternoon). If possible, schedule strenuous tasks for cooler times.
- Understand the risks of altitude and UV: Be extra diligent about hydration at higher elevations and always use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from intense UV radiation, which can exacerbate heat stress.
- Know the signs of heat illness: Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache) and heatstroke (high body temperature, confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness), and know what to do if someone experiences them. Seek immediate medical attention for heatstroke.
- Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you are feeling and don't push yourself too hard in the heat. If you feel unwell, stop working and seek help.
So, remember: when it comes to battling the Colorado heat, knowing your flow is the ultimate way to stay in the know and keep yourself safe.
