Half A Million Unskilled Workers Work at Construction Sites in Dubai Urged to Consume O.R.S Tablets to Maintain Hydration at Work

A Japanese study supports the case for consuming O.R.S Tablets

The extreme environmental conditions make heat-related illness the most important health issue facing outdoor workers in the region

Dubai, UAE, 13 July 2017: Health experts at Clinova urged thousands of unskilled workers working in the UAE to consume O.R.S Hydration Tablets. The Hydration tablets help to maintain hydration at work during summer. In the UAE, heat increases the risk of dehydration and heat stress for the workers. 

Most at risk are those working outdoors performing physically intensive labour and indoor workers who are exposed to high temperatures with poor ventilation. This includes miners, construction workers, office workers, transport workers, air hostess/pilots, domestic workers, warehouse workers and fire-fighters to name a few.

A Japanese study of airport workers working in high temperatures supports the case for consuming O.R.S. The study of 153 workers at Tokyo International Airport found that ineffective hydration caused poor productivity and problems with concentration, potentially impacting on safety in the workplace. 

The study concludes that an intake of oral rehydration salts during outdoor work in a hot environment would be effective in preventing industrial accidents and heatstroke.

“Improving hydration is the key to self-protection for workers in hot climates. These workers should drink a lot of water and consume O.R.S. Tablets. Heavy outdoor work in the heat can cause substantial electrolyte losses. As such, O.R.S. Tablets which are rich in electrolytes and minerals replenish the lost electrolytes, helping labourers perform at peak,” said Arsalan Karim, Director, Research and Development, Clinova Ltd.

Withdaytime summer temperatures in the Gulf regularly exceeding 40 degree Celsius for prolonged periods of time often with high humidity, particularly in the morning and afternoon,the extreme environmental conditions make heat-related illness the most important health issue facing outdoor workers in the region. In addition, physical exertion produces heat at a higher, faster rate. This increased heat production can result in an increase in body temperature, which above a certain temperature, can be difficult to control. Therefore, it is important to develop ways to cool down the body to help maintain core temperature and reduce the negative effects of thermal stress.

“For workers performing manual labour in a thermally stressful environment, the maintenance of an adequate level of hydration is essential to minimise the risk of heat illness and avoid excessive fatigue. Drinking enough water is not the only solution. O.R.S. Tablets should be consumed as it has enough electrolytes necessary for the bodies to function properly. The hydration tablets not only keep the workers properly hydrated, but also make them healthier, safer and more productive, no matter what the weather or working conditions,” added Arsalan Karim.

Clinova’s O.R.S. Tablets are a ground-breaking, balanced formula of glucose, electrolytes and minerals which when added to water help maintain optimal hydration for outdoor workers.

It has been noted that more than half a million unskilled workers work at construction sites in Dubai, according to statistics issued by the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs (PCLA). The UAE has a long-standing commitment to protecting workers’ rights and has served as a role model in protecting and caring for workers’ rights and providing a safe working environment with fair treatment.