4 Precautions to Take While Working in the Heat

By Cayden Wemple. 

With the summer months about to be in full swing, taking the proper steps to be prepared for the heat is vital.  

According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports, 50% to 70% of heat-related outdoor fatalities happen within the first few hot days of the season. This is why it is vital for crew leaders to create plans to keep their employees safe. Here are a few tips from NRCA on how to do so: 

1. Know the regulations and resources 

To protect workers from heat-related illnesses and injuries, OSHA offers a National Emphasis Program. This program includes periodic inspections conducted by OSHA, specifically targeting heat-related hazards in the workplace. Construction leaders are urged to familiarize themselves with OSHA's recommended standards and make use of the on-site consultation program to enhance safety measures on their job sites. 

2. Limit exposure 

In the summer months, crew leaders should consider modifying hours, shortening shifts and adding extra hours to reduce heat exposure. Promote worker relaxation in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned zones; supply ice-filled buckets to aid in cooling; and advise employees to wear light, breathable attire for optimum comfort. 

3. Promote constant hydration 

There can never be enough water on a jobsite. Crew leaders should constantly be reminding their crew to hydrate and remind them to take a break after two hours of heat exposure. In addition to water, it’s important to provide beverages that replenish electrolytes as well such as Gatorade.  

4. Provide personal cooling protective equipment 

Encourage employees to explore the option of utilizing evaporative bandanas, towels, and portable canopies for added comfort. By soaking bandanas and towels in cooling water for a brief period, they can be distributed to workers at cooling stations throughout the day. It is also advisable to keep ice packs readily available to quickly cool down a worker in case of emergencies.