i. Working When Temperature is High. When the temperature is excessively
high, physical work should be curtailed or, under extremely severe conditions,
suspended.
The temperature at which work should be curtailed or suspended
depends on:
--
The humidity.
--
Heat radiation.
--
Air movement.
--
Character of the work.
--
Degree of acclimatization of personnel.
--
Other factors.
Heat casualties may be expected with wet bulb temperatures of 75F
and above unless preventive measures are instituted.
Overexertion can cause heat injury at even lower temperatures.
4-19. REST BREAKS
Rest breaks help a person's body to cool off.
A working person in a moderately hot environment may need to take a 5-
minute rest break in a shaded area after each 25-minute work period.
A person performing heavy work in a hot environment should rest about 30
minutes for each hour he works.
These breaks should be taken only if the tactical situation allows time to stop and rest.
4-20. CLOTHING
a. Clothing as Protection. Clothing protects the body from direct solar
radiation (sunlight). Unprotected skin may develop serious sunburn.
When possible, clothing should be light and loose fitting, especially at the
neck, wrists, and lower legs.
--
This allows for better air circulation, which helps to cool the body.
Soldiers wearing full chemical protective gear are especially prone to heat
injury.
--
The protective clothing traps much of the heat energy produced by
the body.
MD0152
4-27
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