Summer State of Mind

Safety managers and contractors have added responsibility during the hot summer months. Not only are the day-to-day demands challenging as work ramps up, but extra focus needs to be placed on the safety of the crew. Heat-related illnesses (HRIs) and dehydration are common on any jobsite, especially when the work is strenuous. From heat exhaustion, heat stress and heat cramps to simple sunburns, keeping workers cool and hydrated should be a priority.

 

Be on the lookout for symptoms of dehydration:

• Thirst
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Dry mouth
• Excessive sweat
• Dark urine
• Hot & dry skin
• Nausea, dizziness or confusion 

Here are 7 Simple Ways Workers Can Stay Hydrated:

 

1. Plan ahead

Schedule the bulk of the workload during non-peak hours (early morning or late evening). If you can’t schedule work for cooler times of the day, supply shelters where workers can cool off

2. Hydrate

It’s recommended that a worker replenishes water intake every 15 minutes (one quart per hour). Create hydration stations on the jobsite for easy access to cool, clean water. Regular breaks and sanitary bathroom facilities are also needed.

 

Tip: By the time a person feels thirsty, they are already dehydrated

 

3. Avoid sugar and processed food

Sugary foods and beverages require lots of water to break down and metabolize. Conserve energy and body fluids by avoiding dehydrating sodas, coffee and snacks. Better choices would be naturally hydrating fruits and veggies—melons, cucumbers, watermelon or carrots.

 

Tip: Most fluid and electrolyte intake occurs with meals, so workers should be cautioned against skipping meals

4. Provide electrolyte replenishment

Supply workers with easy-to-use packets they can mix with water to replenish electrolytes and other minerals that are lost through sweat.

5. Acclimate

Gradually expose workers to heat over a 7-10 day period. Workers exposed to direct sunlight, as well as those who work in busy metropolitan areas (heat islands) are at even greater risk of dehydration and HRIs because of the increased temperatures. It’s not only outdoor work that is impacted by warmer temperatures, facilities that lack proper ventilation and air-conditioning can also lead to HRIs.

6. Provide cooling apparel

Light colored, breathable clothing can allow sweat evaporation, helping to keep body temperature down. Another option is to block sun, prevent sunburn and chill out with an evaporative cooling neck shade that can attach directly to a worker’s hard hat.

 

7. Educate and train

You can provide all the resources in the worlds for workers to stay cool and hydrated in the heat. In order to be effective, employees must be trained to spot and treat signs of heat stress and dehydration.

 

Prevent heat-related illnesses due to dehydration by having plan in place throughout the year, especially in the warmer months. It’s also important to remember that not all employees will have the same response to heat exposure, especially new or temporary employees, and may require further monitoring. Factors like health, age and fitness levels, as well as the types of clothing a worker must wear can all impact the risk for heat-related illnesses.

 

 

Dehydration is a serious health hazard. Not only can it affect physical and mental health, it also impacts the productivity and safety of a workplace. Train workers on heat and hydration risk factors, how to avoid heat stress and the steps to take in emergency situations. By taking just a few simple steps you can avoid unnecessary illness this summer and keep your crew safe.