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High altitude safety
The
summit of Mauna Kea is located at 14,000 feet. At this elevation, the
atmospheric pressure is about 40% less than at sea level. This poses
significant health hazards. The effects on humans range from a minor
discomfort to life threatening conditions. It is very important to
understand the symptoms of altitude sickness and to be familiar with
the procedures to adopt both to prevent it and to respond to it.
Please take some time to carefully read the Mauna Kea Hazards information sheet and the Preparation for
Winter Weather memorandum.
JAC
policy is to err on the side of safety when dealing with actual or
potential mountain sickness. Visitors or staff experiencing symptoms
should inform the Telescope System Specialist or Work Leader at once. A
decision will then be taken on whether the individual should descend
from altitude.
In any case, nobody is allowed to spend
more than 14 hours above HP during any consecutive 24 hours period.
Considering the time it takes to drive from HP to the summit
and back, this corresponds to less than 13 hours at the summit. TSSs
will enforce this if necessary by switching the telescope off!
TSSs have the JAC's full
support in this.
Please
inform the TSS if you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms
listed below, or if you have any other reason of concern.
Minor
Symptoms
mild shortness of
breath
dizziness
lightheadedness
headaches
a change
in visual activity
palpitations
chest
tightness
nausea
Major
Symptoms
shortness of breath
sudden
onset of severe unrelenting headaches
chest pain
abdominal
pain
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Major
Signs
slurred speech
visual
disturbance
loss of
coordination
paralysis
seizures
collapse
slow or
rapid heart beat
labored
breathing
unrelenting
nausea or vomiting
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Preventing
high-altitude sickness:
- Avoid over-exertion and pace yourself
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid standing for long periods of time
- Don't smoke
- Avoid gas-producing food
- Avoid alcohol. Note that alcohol consumption is prohibited at the
summit
- Pressure breathing (slow exhale through your mouth with your lips
almost closed)
The visit to the
summit is not allowed if:
- you are below 16 years of age
- you are pregnant
- you have been scuba diving in the 24 hours preceding the visit
You are advised
not to go to the summit if:
- you suffer from a respiratory or heart condition
- you suffer from a severe overweight condition
Other hazards:
- Dehydration can occur easily.
- Serious sunburn and eye damage can occur easily, especially if
snow is present.
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