Light industrial workers can spend long periods outdoors. And, in summer, these workers are increasingly susceptible to dehydration, fatigue, and other heat-related illnesses. Yet, there are many things you can do to help your workers beat the heat in summer.
Now, let’s look at four tips you can use to help your workers keep cool in summer.
1. Offer Frequent Breaks
Encourage your workers to take breaks. A typical break can last only a few minutes. But, each one gives a worker to rest and recharge.
In addition, it can be beneficial to set up water stations where workers can hydrate during breaks. Give workers plenty of opportunities to quench their thirst during breaks, and they’ll be better equipped to stay cool.
2. Watch for Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses
Keep an eye out for any of the following signs of a heat-related illness:
- Sweating
- Clammy and/or pale skin
- Muscle pain and/or spasms
- Blisters on the skin
- Red and/or warm skin
If you notice any symptoms of a heat-related illness in a worker, have him, or her take a break. At this time, the worker should move indoors or to a cool, shaded area. If necessary, call 911 if a worker feels dizzy, nauseous, or confused, or loses consciousness.
When in doubt about heat-related illnesses, err on the side of caution. Provide your employees with time to cool down during their work shifts. Furthermore, ensure workers know about heat-related illnesses and do their part to protect themselves and others against them.
3. Provide the Proper Clothing and Gear
Ensure workers wear fabrics that are lightweight and moisture-wicking. Ideally, clothing that consists of 100% spun polyester offers built-in moisture management. As such, it offers maximum breathability and comfort.
Provide workers with light-colored work apparel whenever possible, too. Dark colors tend to absorb heat, while light ones reflect it. Thus, light-colored apparel can help workers maintain a normal body temperature.
Your workers should wear a well-vented hat when they work outdoors in summer as well. This hat can absorb heat and protect a worker’s head, neck, and face from the sun.
4. Track the Weather
Follow the weather closely, particularly in summer. If hot temperatures are in the forecast, you may be able to let workers complete tasks early in the morning or late at night. This can be beneficial since the temperatures may be lower during these times than at other points during the day.
Finally, OSHA offers a helpful Heat Safety app that you can use to calculate the heat index at a work site. Use this app to determine the risk level your workers face by working outdoors in summer.
The Bottom Line on How to Help Your Workers Beat the Heat in Summer
If you want to help your workers beat the heat in summer, prioritize caution. Because if you do what’s necessary to keep your employees cool, you can protect them against heat-related illnesses.
Another option you may want to consider relative to summer work: adding to your team. American StaffCorp can put you in touch with top talent in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Claremore, and Pryor. As a result, we can help you improve your team and ensure your workers can remain cool, safe, and productive in summer. To learn more, please contact us today.
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