Dubai: Dubai Municipality field workers have reported an increase in energy levels after receiving electrolyte drinks.
A survey following the municipality’s pilot programme, covering almost 1,000 out of 5,000 workers, suggests the project is successful.
The project, the municipality said, is in line with the directives of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, to support workers’ health and well-being.
The municipality workers were given the drinks on two occasions — during work and after work for an unspecified period of time. The project was launched taking into consideration the harsh summer conditions.
The workers reported having more energy and concentration. Almost 650 of the workers said they were not tired, while 77 per cent said they could work longer hours than needed. Also, 64 per cent said they experienced fewer headaches, which can be caused by heat, thirst and exertion.
Staying well hydrated and replenishing salts and minerals lost through sweat is extremely important for field workers, said Salem Bin Mesmar, assistant director-general for environment, health and safety control at the municipality.
Marwan Abdullah Al Mohammad, director of public health and safety department, added most workers follow unhealthy dietary habits that are hard to change. For example, most workers were found to start their hectic day by having a breakfast of tea with paratha (fried unleavened bread popular with Southeast Asians). The combination is not ideal as tea is a diuretic and the oily paratha also causes thirst.
Poor hydration and diet leads to absenteeism and lost work hours besides posing a threat to health, the officials added.
