Working Outside in the Heat

Hot weather can already be uncomfortable for many, but individuals who are required to work outside in these conditions need to take extra precautions to avoid getting a heat related illness. This can include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, sunburn or heat rash. Below are tips for outdoor workers wanting to remain safe when working in extreme heat.

• Acclimate to the heat: To help build tolerance to the heat, work no more than 20-percent of the shift’s duration at full intensity in the heat. Then, gradually increase this duration by no more than 20-percent a day until the heat is tolerable.
• Hydrate: Staying hydrated is one of the most important things to do in the heat. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink, but drink at least a cup of water every 20 minutes. Avoid any alcoholic beverages as well as other drinks that contain large amounts of sugar. If a sport drink is a must for working outside, opt for a sugar-free version of your favorite electrolyte drink.
• Apply Sunscreen: Applying and reapplying sunscreen throughout the day will protect your skin from the harsh sun.
• Take frequent breaks: Working in the heat requires additional breaks to avoid overexerting yourself. If there’s access to an air-conditioned building, take breaks inside to cool off. If air conditioning is not available, spend your breaks in plenty of shade with lots of water.
• Dress for the heat: Loose, breathable, lightweight and light-colored clothing will make you feel a tad bit cooler. A hat with a brim going all the way around your head will also give your head and neck shade from the sun. If a mask is necessary outside, make sure to change it frequently once it gets wet or soiled.
• Ask if tasks can be performed earlier: If you can avoid working during peak heating hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., then exercise this ability. However, if your company has strict working hours, take frequent breaks during the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• Work with each other: Monitor your coworkers and have them do the same for you. Encourage them to take frequent breaks to hydrate and rest in the shade or in an air-conditioned building. If you see your fellow comrades performing abnormal behaviors, slurred language, suffer a seizure or lose consciousness, immediately call 911 and cool the worker off with water and ice as soon as possible. Stay with them until help arrives as well, and if possible, move them to a controlled, air-conditioned environment.

Knowing these tips to help yourself and your coworkers during extreme heat will ensure the workplace remains more tolerable in extreme heat conditions.

Source: CDC, OSHA
Image by David Mark from Pixabay