Working in the Heat

Working in the Heat: Tips for a Safe and Effective Work Environment

Working in the heat and outdoors during the summer months can pose numerous challenges for workers and their supervisors. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also be dangerous if proper measures are not taken to protect employees. Let's look at how we can ensure a safe work environment in the heat.

A Rest Area is Needed for Working in the Heat

Firstly, it helps with rapid recovery and provides shelter from direct sunlight. It allows employees to cool down and consume the necessary fluids for working in the heat.

Work Equipment and Machines for Working in the Heat

Secondly, inspect and regularly maintain work equipment to prevent overheating and enhance work efficiency.

Work Clothes and Work Shoes for Working in the Heat

• Providing appropriate work clothes: The right choice of work clothes is essential for maintaining the comfort and safety of workers in hot conditions. Work clothes should be loose and light, yet densely woven. Suitable are shirts or blouses with long sleeves and long trousers. Choose fabrics that are breathable and allow quick sweat evaporation. Cotton and other natural materials are often an excellent choice as they allow air circulation while absorbing moisture. Light colors reflect sunlight and help reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the garment. Thus, white, gray, or light blue are often recommended colors for working in the heat. Work clothes with adjustable sleeves or ventilation holes allow employees to adjust their attire based on current conditions, increasing comfort throughout the workday. Some work clothes come with built-in UV protection, especially important for those working under direct sunlight. UV-protective clothing helps prevent sunburns and reduces the risk of skin diseases. Work clothes should be durable to withstand daily wear and tear. While it's essential for clothes to be light and airy, they must also be robust enough to protect workers from scratches, abrasions, and other potential injuries.
• Providing appropriate headwear: The headwear should protect the nose, ears, neck, back of the head, and shoulders. Choose hats, visor caps, and caps with legionnaire-style side attachments or helmets with neck and nape protection extensions.
• Providing sunglasses: Invest in quality sunglasses with declared protection against UVA and UVB radiation that fit snugly to the face and prevent side radiation.
• Breathable work shoes: Designed for optimal breathability and preventing moisture retention. Choose work shoes made of materials that allow airflow, such as mesh materials or leather with micro-ventilation holes. Insoles that absorb sweat and dry quickly are ideal for hot work conditions. These insoles prevent moisture buildup and keep feet dry. Even though you're looking for breathable shoes, don't sacrifice safety. Ensure the shoe soles are slip-resistant, especially crucial on wet or oily surfaces. Despite the heat, work shoes must provide necessary ankle and arch support, especially if you'll be spending a lot of time on your feet.
  
  

Fluid Replacement

Therefore, refreshing water should always be available when working in the heat. It is recommended to drink a glass of fresh water every 15 to 20 minutes, meaning from 6 deciliters to one liter per hour.

Protection with Sunscreens

This measure complements the others. A quality sunscreen with a protection factor of 30 or higher should be applied before starting work in the sun. Apply a thick layer and reapply several times when working in the heat.

Messages and Reminders

Last but not least, regularly refresh and educate your workers about the importance of protection in the heat and how they can care for their health.

For working in the heat, it's crucial for employers to provide suitable conditions for their workers to protect themselves from the heat and sun rays. By following the above tips and recommendations, employers and employees can ensure a safe and productive work environment throughout the summer.