SysOps and ITs special summer hazard
You make sure your servers and equipment are kept cool so that they can run at maximum efficiency. But are YOU keeping cool this summer?
Because all your gear is being kept at low temperatures your workspaces are often much MUCH cooler than the outside temperature.
When you go out for lunch or when you leave for the day the temperature difference can be damaging to your health. Transiting from very cold to very hot can result dizziness and nausea.
If you’re heading out into the heat prepare yourself by stepping out for a few moments at a time (even if it’s just into a warmer part of your office area or into the hallway if that’s warmer than your office) so it doesn’t come as such a shock to your system.
It’s not just the temperature you have to worry about; you have to pay attention to the humidex or heat index. When the humidity is too high, sweat doesn’t evaporate properly. As a result you wind up not just hot but sticky as well. This is when heatstroke can set in.
So what to do?
Unless you’re going straight from an AC office to an AC car to an AC home when the outside temperature is above 30ºC/85ºF and you’ll be outside for more than 5 minutes, remember the following:
- Hydration: Even if you don’t feel like it drink lots of water. Sip it. Make sure the water is cool not cold. NO alcoholic beverages, coffee or sodas!
- Stay in the shade when you can.
- Wear a hat that covers the back of your neck and comfortable, light clothes.
AND just because you’re in the subway or on a bus going home doesn’t mean you’re not subjected to high heats. In fact it’s often hotter! So, if you have no AC, when you get home:
- Take a cool bath or shower when you get in and before you go to sleep.
- Keep curtains drawn and blinds closed especially on the sunny side of your home.
- Fans alone may not be enough; go out to the movies or somewhere with AC.
- Avoid cooking or eating a heavy meal.
- Computers and TVs emit a tremendous amount of heat. If you can, turn them off.
- Learn the difference between sunstroke and heatstroke.
- And, as always, if you’re taking any medication or are under a doctor’s care, please speak to your physician about the side effects that high temperatures can cause.
Stay cool everyone!
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