Hi everyone.
This sounds really stupid, but I have a really tough time when it gets hot here! I live in Victoria, BC and we are used to very nice summers (sunny, mild weather.) Usually the temperature is 22-25 degrees celcius and I am fine. Right now though, we are having a heat wave and the temperature soared today up to 33 degrees at one point.
I know that most of you probably live in climates where it is much hotter but I'm not used to this and find my anxiety soaring along with the temperature! These temperatures have happened before but right now I'm starting a new job in a veterinary clinic that doesn't have air conditioning and we have to be in surgery for two-three hours tomorrow (cap, mask, scrubs ect) I am just getting used to the heat behind the mask but know that tomorrow is going to suck because it is that much hotter. I can leave surgery if I feel too overheated but am worried about giving a bad impression to my boss because I am so new.
I work a long day (9 hours with a 8 hour lunch break; again, I know this is standard but I am used to 4 hour days and this is a change). I guess my anxiety is skyrocketing because I'm so obsessed about getting heat exhaustion/stress ect... I was trying to find some tips on how to stay cool while working but all the information I got was all the dangers of working in the heat. Of course they give all the signs of heat stroke and how you need to stay away from working in 30 degree temperatures or you will pass out ect...
So basically I'm scared. Can someone honestly tell me it is safe to work at temperatures like this? I get so anxious when I start sweating and flushed, I keep worrying that i'm going to pass out or something.
HELP! I need some reassurance that it is possible to work safely at these temperatures. Also, we have two fans provided for us but they don't seem to do much. I went out today and bought four fans and am wondering if it would make me look really strange to take those in to work tomorrow. The new girl jitters I suppose.
Thanks in advance for some advice!
Jen