---> Cardiovascular and respiratory systems
Reduction in ‘aerobic power’ by approximately 10% per decade (reduced cardiac output, decreased maximum breathing capacity and maximum oxygen uptake during physical exertion)Potential impact at work:
- Particularly relevant for jobs with heavy physical work.
- Older workers may be working nearer to their own maximal levels resulting in fatigue.
- Provide equipment to reduce heavy physical workload.
- Introduce frequent short breaks.
- Allow self-pacing of work.
- Ensure sufficient time for recovery.
- Provide regular health checks.
- Decreased tolerance to extreme heat and cold.
- Difficulties in adjusting to temperature differences.
- More susceptible to hypothermia and heatstroke.
- Reduce exposure as far as possible to extremes of temperature.
- Avoid strenuous work in hot, humid and cold environments.
- Ensure access to cooler/warmer areas when work is performed in hot/cold environments.
- Provide sufficient beverages to prevent dehydration.
- Allow self-pacing of work in extreme temperatures.
- Ensure that the provided protects all exposed workers and fits both men and women.
- Provide regular health surveillance.