Course worker break during hot summer days

[lewsthomas]

Hi all,

Just wondering if any of the higher ups would consider having a short say 10-15 min intermission during some of the huge heat runs during the summer time.

I recall a few times that workers are on the course for over 1 hour in 90+ heat especially during days that we had over 200 cars running.

These heats are tough when you are standing in a concrete parking lot in 90 to 100 degree temps. I recall a few times drinking a complete Big Gatorade etc and still felling like I was going to keel over 30 mins later.

Maybe a intermission mid way through the heats 2nd run during some of the large class runs would give people a chance to grab another drink, get some shade whatever.

Just food for thought before someone gets hurt.

Lew Thomas
9 STU

I don't think the summers are going to get any cooler

[Proxenus]

I don't recall any events with 90 drivers per heat, but I do understand your concern. A 300 driver event with 5 heats would average 60 per heat.

I don't foresee a 15 minute break in the middle of each heat solving the problem, unfortunately. It may give a temporary break to course workers, but will prolong the total time you are at an event by at least an hour.

One thing I've noticed some other regions do is set up a big water thermos at each corner station for the workers. I'm not sure if that is viable for us, but it works pretty well.

For me personally, I've found that if I'm drinking water constantly all day I don't need a large amount of water to sustain myself on course.. however if you don't start drinking water until you've been in the sun for 3 hours and are then on course you'll need a lot.

$0.02

[Jarod]

I've noticed that some people take sun umbrella's out with them. This might be an option. Another thing you can do is pick a spot that is by a lamp post. I've found that getting to your corner assignment early will let you get the best pickings for where you want to work on the corner.

[russjnco]

Although I think breaks are a little out of the question I do think supplied water coolers would be a good idea to keep everyone hydrated. Obviously Tire World helps out with that down in the springs but DIA is another issue.

[Levi]

Good shoes make a world of difference, too.

[Eric Pollock]

First you can't have an umbrella while working course due to obstruction of view and I'm sure PaulL can chime in here. Jesse is right that you need to be drinking water before you start working the course or you are just beating yourself up for not doing it. Heavier suntan lotion and hats help.

One suggestion? At the Kansas MidDiv they had water jugs out on course for the course workers, but I know this would add to the cost and obligation factor.

But you have to be prepared for a day in the hot sun. If we took breaks for 15 minutes that adds 45 more minutes to the day that is already long enough. Bring an umbrella with you to grid or paddock which is what I do in the major heat of the summer.

Just some more 2 cents.

[PaulL]

Umbrellas are a problem not only for visibility, but because of the trouble associated with setting it down to run and get a cone and having it blow away while you're gone, or at least slow you down, or maybe you trip over it, etc.

I've found that a wet washcloth draped over your neck helps an amazing amount. Especially if you dunk it in your cooler of icewater before using it. Whew!

Wide-brimmed hats are also much better than baseball caps.

You can even dunk your hat in icewater!