- Seafarers face serious heatstroke risks when working in extreme heat or poorly ventilated areas aboard ship.
- Early recognition of symptoms and immediate cooling are lifesaving.
- Hydration, breaks, protective clothing, and acclimatization form the cornerstone of prevention.
Heatstroke is a critical medical emergency that occurs when the body’s core temperature exceeds 40 °C and can no longer regulate itself. Unlike heat exhaustion, which responds to rest and fluids, heatstroke demands urgent intervention—otherwise, organ failure, brain damage, or death may result. High ambient temperatures, humidity, and prolonged exposure overwhelm natural cooling mechanisms, making anyone on deck in full sun, in a stifling engine room, or confined to poorly ventilated spaces vulnerable to this life‑threatening condition, according to Britannia P&I Club.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
Prompt identification of heatstroke can save lives. Key indicators include a core body temperature above 40 °C, hot dry skin (often with no sweating), rapid pulse and breathing, confusion or disorientation, nausea or vomiting, and in severe cases fainting or seizures. If these signs appear, it’s imperative to begin cooling measures immediately and summon medical help without delay.
Strategies to Prevent Heatstroke
Staying ahead of heat illness is far easier than treating it. Seafarers should maintain constant hydration by drinking water or electrolyte solutions before the thirst sets in, and avoid diuretics like caffeine or alcohol. Work schedules should incorporate shaded or air‑cooled rest breaks, especially during peak heat hours. When operating under mandatory protective gear, consider lightweight, loose‑fitting, light‑colored garments made from moisture‑wicking fabrics, along with a hat and UV‑blocking eyewear. Additional measures—such as carrying damp cloths to apply to pulse points, erecting temporary shade, deploying portable fans, and using broad‑spectrum sunscreen—can further reduce heat stress.
Acclimatizing New or Returning Crew
Crew members arriving from cooler climates require gradual exposure to hot conditions. Over several days, increasing their time in sun‑exposed or high‑temperature work areas allows their bodies to adapt. Supervisors should monitor newcomers for early signs of heat intolerance and adjust workloads until they build sufficient heat resilience.
Emergency Response Protocol
When heatstroke is suspected, immediate action must follow: move the individual to the coolest available location, apply ice packs to the armpits, neck, and groin—or immerse them in cool water—and encourage sips of water or electrolyte drinks if they remain conscious. Alert the ship’s medical officer or call emergency services ashore, and continuously monitor breathing and consciousness until professional care arrives.
By remaining vigilant for early symptoms, adopting robust prevention measures, and responding swiftly to emergencies, seafarers can safeguard themselves and their colleagues from the severe dangers of heatstroke.
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Source: Britannia P&I Club
