THE EXTENT AND EFFECTS OF DEHYDRATION AMONG LOGGERS

摘要

Forest harvesting (logging) is well recognised as being a hazardous occupation. There have been many efforts to try and reduce fatalities and injuries, but in New Zealand much of the work is still physically demanding, in harsh environmental conditions. One area which has produced much interest is that of dehydration and fluid intake of workers. Dehydration is associated with fatigue, poor concentration, unsafe work practice and longterm health problems. Although there have been efforts to encourage sufficient fluid intake among workers, there has been little research to determine the extent of the problem. This pilot study aimed to investigate the level of hydration among a sample of loggers and establish whether further work was needed to clarify the status of workers and to implement and measure solutions.