As the weather gets warmer, it's important to take steps to protect your construction crews from heat-related illnesses. Heat stress can be a serious problem, and it can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and even death.
There are a number of things you can do to help keep your crews cool and safe in the heat. Here are a few tips:
**Provide plenty of fluids.**
Workers should drink plenty of fluids, even if they don't feel thirsty. Water is the best choice, but sports drinks and 'hydration drinks' can also be very helpful! Avoid drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine, as these can dehydrate workers. If I can cut a cup of coffee from my routine, I promise you can, too!
**Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.**
Clothing that is made of breathable fabrics will help workers stay cool. Avoid wearing dark-colored clothing, as it absorbs heat. Cotton is the best material for working in hot weather, but polyester, rayon, and nylon are all good options also.
**Take breaks in the shade.**
Workers should take frequent breaks in the shade to cool down. If possible, provide workers with a shaded area to rest in. Pop-up tents can be found at most local hardware or sports equipment stores. They may seem expensive up front (around $80-$150 for a 8x8 to 12x12, roughly) but having a cool shelter can make a big difference!
**Monitor workers for signs of heat stress.** Symptoms of heat stress include:
* Dizziness
* Headache
* Nausea
* Fatigue
* Muscle cramps
* Rapid heartbeat
* Confusion
* Pale skin
* Hot, dry skin
If you notice any of these symptoms in a worker, take them to a cool, shaded area and have them rest. Encourage them to drink fluids and cool down with a wet cloth. If symptoms worsen, call 911 immediately.
By following these tips, you can help keep your construction crews safe in the heat.
Bonus Tag: Mental Health
**Keeping Your Demeanor Calm**
In addition to the physical precautions listed above, it's also important to keep your demeanor calm in the heat. When people are hot and stressed, they are more likely to become irritable and angry. This can lead to accidents and injuries.
Here are a few tips for keeping your demeanor calm in the heat:
* Take deep breaths and relax your muscles.
* Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated.
* Take breaks in the shade and cool down.
* Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
*Be sure to eat well before shift and during if needed/possible.
* Be patient and understanding with others.
By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and your coworkers safe and productive in the heat!
You make it to the end of the article so here's a bonus link to show my thanks! Download the free OSHA HEAT SAFETY TOOL, a customizable heat index app developed by OSHA and NIOSH and endorced by the CDC!
Why I like this app: 1. It's free. 2. It's easy to use. 3. It's got your back!
"It's only 95, it's not that hot, get back to work!" said plenty of office folks.
But as a worker in the field, we know that when Humidity is higher, it can feel much hotter than any thermometer will read. Using this app can be helpful to highlight to your support team just how dangerous working conditions can be.
I hope you've found this article helpful! I used Google Bard to help me plan my outline and tailor the writing style to my audience. I'm still getting the hang of blog posts. I appreciate any feedback, reach me anytime at SafeyCityLLC@gmail.com or 929.224.4423. Thank you!
Safety First, Safety Always!
-Melissa
Commentaires