TM 5-3810-307-10
HEAT AND COLD STRESS
Operating the crane under extremely hot or cold ambient temperatures require
special precautions to avoid operator fatigue, heat stress, frostbite, and other health
problems.
Refer to the following Technical Bulletins and Field Manuals:
TB MED 507 Occupational and Environmental Health, Prevent,
Treatment, and Control of Heat Energy. (Jul-80)
TB MED 81 Occupational and Environmental Health, Prevent,
Treatment, and Control of Cold Energy. (Sept-76)
FM-11 First Aid for Soldiers. Chapter 5, (10-88), Change 1, (9-89),
and Change 2. (12-91).
FM 21-10 Field Hygiene and Sanitation. Sections 1 - Heat Injuries
and Section 2 - Cold Injuries (11-88).
[Note: Section 1 and Section 2 from this Field Manual are reprinted here.]
HEAT INJURIES
DRINK PLENTY OF WATER. Depending on the heat, you may need to drink from
qt (0.5 l) [78 F to 82 F (26 C to 28 C)], to 2 qt (1.9 l) [90 F (32 C) and above]
of water per hour; or 4 gal. (15.1 l) or more per day in hot dry climates. Drink extra
water before starting any mission or hard work. Cool water [50 F to 55 F (10 C to
13 C)] is absorbed faster than cold water. Drink small quantities frequently. Drink
water even if you are not thirsty.
Refill your canteens at every opportunity.
Remember - If your urine is dark yellow, you are not drinking enough water. Thirst
is not a good indicator of dehydration.
USE WORK/REST CYCLES.
Work and rest as your leader directs.
General
guidelines are:
When the temperature is between 78 F to 82 F (26 C to 28 C),
work 50 minutes and rest 10 minutes.
When the temperature is 90 F (32 C) or above, work 20 minutes
and rest 40 minutes.
Work and rest in the shade, if possible.
EAT ALL MEALS TO REPLACE SALT. Take a salt solution only when directed by
the medical personnel.
MODIFY YOUR UNIFORM. If directed/authorized by your commander: Unblouse
pants from boots. Keep skin covered in the sun, loosen, or remove shirt when
working in the shade. Keep clothing loose at the neck, wrists, and lower legs. If the
threat from biting insects is high, leave shirt sleeves down and pants bloused inside
boots. See FM-21-11, First Aid for Soldiers for information on heat injury prevention
and first aid.
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