High altitude safety

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High altitude safety

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.

Major Symptoms Major Signs

shortness of breath slurred speech

sudden onset of severe unrelenting headaches visual disturbance

chest pain loss of coordination

abdominal pain paralysis

seizures

collapse

Minor Symptoms slow or rapid heart beat

mild shortness of breath labored breathing

dizziness unrelenting nausea or vomiting

lightheadedness

headaches

a change in visual activity

palpitations

chest tightness

nausea

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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Contact: Jan Wouterloot. Updated: Mon Feb 27 16:45:23 HST 2012

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