Summer Weather: 10 Ways to Beat the Heat
Summer is a favorite season for many, but it comes with serious health risks, particularly for those who work outdoors. The intense summer weather can lead to sunburn, dehydration, and in severe cases, even heat stroke.
You can effectively manage these heat-related risks with the right knowledge and precautions. We’ve outlined 10 safety tips to help you and your teams stay healthy and safe while on the job.
1. Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Water is the best option, but you can also consume sports drinks containing electrolytes to replenish essential minerals lost through sweating.
2. Take regular breaks
Schedule frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas. This will allow your body to cool down and recover from heat stress.
3. Wear appropriate clothing
Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to allow more air circulation and help sweat evaporate. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the sun.
4. Use sunscreen
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher to exposed skin. For the best protection, remember to reapply at least every two hours.
5. Work during cooler hours
Whenever possible, schedule physically demanding tasks during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Avoid working during the hottest hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
6. Gradually adapt to the heat
If you haven’t worked outside for extensive periods before, gradually increasing your exposure to the heat is helpful. This process, called acclimatization, helps improve your tolerance to heat stress.
Spend small amounts of time outside, even when you have a day off from work, to allow your body to adapt and maintain your heat tolerance.
7. Take care of your eyes
Wear sunglasses that provide UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful sun rays. Consider using safety glasses if your work involves potential eye hazards.
8. Prioritize restful sleep
Ensure you get enough sleep during the night to allow your body to recover. Restful sleep is crucial for maintaining overall health and energy levels during the day, especially in high temperatures.
9. Monitor your health
Pay attention to warning signs of heat-related illnesses. Common signs include:
- Dizziness, Nausea
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps and excessive sweating
- Confusion or disorientation
If you or your coworker experience any of these symptoms, seek shade, rest, and rehydrate. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention immediately.
10. Encourage a buddy system
Establish a buddy system with your colleagues to keep an eye on each other. This can help ensure that signs of heat-related illnesses are spotted and treated promptly. Check in regularly, and work in close proximity so you can monitor each other throughout the day.
Beat the Summer Heat with E. Meier
We can all enjoy a safe and productive summer by staying informed and taking the necessary precautions. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor professional or a weekend warrior, you and your coworkers can better prepare by following these tips to beat the summer heat.
At E. Meier, we believe in the importance of not just getting the job done but doing so in a way that prioritizes the health and safety of our dedicated team.
As we continue to pave the way this summer, we also want to ensure that your pavement is prepared to handle the heat. Learn more about how to maintain your property in the midst of high temperatures in this blog.