Summer is fast approaching and with rising temperatures come new risks at the job site. Between the pavement and the reflective buildings, the heat will multiply at construction sites around the city.
As you’re working at the site, there are precautions you can take to make sure you’re prepared for a safe day in the summer heat.
Stay hydrated
One thing you can be sure of is the sweat that comes with working outside on a hot summer day. Sweat is how the body cools itself and regulates temperature. But when you are not properly hydrated, the body cannot create enough sweat to stay cool and can overheat. Keep water nearby so that you have access to it and can take frequent drinks.
Take your scheduled breaks
It can be tempting to just keep working and try to get through the day. This can be very dangerous as temperatures rise in the summer. Breaks give you time to rest and recharge.
Try to take your breaks in the shade, if possible. While any opportunity to allow your body to rest will help, getting out of the sun for a few minutes during your break will help you cool off before going back out into the sun.
What you wear is important
There might be some required safety gear that you must wear at the site, but when possible, wearing lightweight and light-color clothing is important. Loose breathable fabrics will help your body stay cool while you’re working.
Watch for signs something is wrong
When you’re working in the heat it can be easy to lose track of how your body is responding. Pay attention to your coworkers and look for signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Watch for irritability, confusion, and headaches. These can be signs of overexposure.
There are a lot of ways that you and your coworkers keep each other safe on the job site. One of those ways is making sure everyone is safe in the heat.
