---> Cardiovascular and respiratory systems

OSH Professional

2: Healthy workplaces for all ages

---> 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.
Addressing the changes through safety and health management:
  • 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.
Reduced ability to regulate body temperaturePotential impact at work:
  • Decreased tolerance to extreme heat and cold.
  • Difficulties in adjusting to temperature differences.
  • More susceptible to hypothermia and heatstroke.
Addressing the changes through safety and health management:
  • 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.