From Menthol Spray to Foot Baths: Heat Coping Tips from Hot Workplaces

Working in extreme heat presents daily challenges for many, but employees in physically demanding jobs have developed unique strategies to cope. Sema Cimen, owner of a chicken shop in Hamburg, endures the heat from her grills, often working alone. She stays hydrated with a large water bottle and takes breaks outside when possible. To combat the intense heat, she has brought in a mobile air conditioner, though she uses it sparingly to avoid illness. Cimen also finds relief with menthol spray, which provides a refreshing sensation with any breeze. She emphasizes maintaining a positive attitude, listening to music, and not letting the heat overwhelm her.

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When I work here, always in spaghetti straps.

Employees at Bäderland, a Hamburg bath operator, face different heat challenges as sauna attendants. They work in temperatures of 90 degrees Celsius or more during "Aufguss" (infusions), but only for about eight minutes at a time. Michael Dietel, a spokesperson for Bäderland, notes that this short duration makes the heat exposure less taxing than prolonged exposure to lower temperatures. After their shifts, sauna staff have 20 to 30 minutes to cool down, a luxury not always available to those working outdoors in the heat.

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He is a power hog and it's not good for the body either. You get sick quickly if you put it here and let it run all the time.

Dietel offers a simple tip for managing heat: a lukewarm foot bath. While specific advice for the chicken shop owner or sauna attendants isn't detailed, the article highlights that even in extreme work environments, personal coping mechanisms and simple remedies can make a significant difference. The shared experiences underscore the importance of adaptation and resilience in the face of challenging temperatures.

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My characteristic is: Always stay positive, no matter what happens outside.