Heat stress is a serious health risk. High intensity exercise in a hot environment, with the associated fluid loss and elevation of body temperature, can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke (which can be fatal). High humidity significantly increases the likelihood of heat stress. Children are at greater risk than adults are because their thermoregulation mechanisms are not fully developed. Older athletes can also be at high risk because of reduced cardiac function.
Competition organisers have a Duty of Care to monitor environmental conditions and to take action to minimise the risk of heat stress to athletes.
Scope of these Recommendations
These recommendations shall apply to all competitions conducted in Australia under the auspices of, and sanctioned by, Rowing Australia.
