Dehydration is a very real hazard on a Florida work site. In our 30 years in the construction industry in Central Florida, we’ve seen the danger that dehydration can pose. By definition, dehydration is when the body uses or loses more water than it takes in. Since our bodies are composed of around 60% water, having even a small deficit can wreak havoc with many bodily functions. However, the side effects of dehydration are not just physical, and they can seriously affect the safety of a work site.

Physical Effects of Dehydration

Dehydration is dangerous to the worker experiencing it. The balance between hydration and electrolytes is an important one. When that balance is off due to dehydration, the body suffers. This can include:

  • The reduction in blood volume forces the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body.
  • Putting extra strain on the kidneys.
  • Reduced muscle endurance.
  • Muscle cramps.
  • Headaches and fatigue.
  • Increases the chances for heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

All of the above side effects can pose a danger for the worker experiencing dehydration.

Psychological Effects of Dehydration

Dehydration does not just affect the body. It affects the brain as well, and these side effects are where dehydration can start to be dangerous for others on a worksite.

Side effects dehydration can cause in the brain include:

  • Dizziness.
  • Disorientation.
  • Poor concentration.
  • Slower reaction times and reduced alertness.
  • Impaired cognitive function and poor decision-making.

This can mean that a worker suffering dehydration can be a danger to others on the same work site. If a worker is running a heavy piece of machinery like an excavator, driving a dump truck, or working with tools and materials at height above the heads of others, then any dizziness, disorientation, or impairment in thinking and reasoning can result in accidents, injuries, and worse.

Dehydration affects the brain’s ability to think and reason, and it—at best—can affect a worker’s attention to details related to safety. At worst, dehydration can cause a worker to make mistakes that lead to injuries or worse to themselves and others.

Safety is always our biggest concern at Tucker Paving. We have 30+ years of experience in the asphalt and concrete paving industry. We complete projects for residential, commercial, and municipal clients. Contact us by calling (863) 299-2262, or fill out our contact form online, and let us help you with your next project.