Summer is here, and the need to stay cool on the job is more important than ever. Summer’s scorching temperatures can turn our workdays into a sweaty battle against the heat. While we may be eager to soak up the sun during our time off, staying safe and healthy on the job should never take a backseat. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top five ways to shield yourself from heat-related illnesses this summer. From clever hydration hacks to practical clothing choices, get ready to conquer those long, hot days at work like a true champion!
Introduction
First of all, with summertime officially here, the temperatures are rising and the risk for heat-related illnesses is increasing. And if you work outdoors or in a hot environment, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself from the potentially dangerous effects of heat exposure. And these tips, combined with our selection of cooling products, will help you stay cool and comfortable all summer long.
Here are some tips for staying cool and safe during the summer months:
Drink plenty of fluids: Dehydration is one of the main causes of heat-related illness, so make sure to drink plenty of water or other fluids throughout the day. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as they can actually contribute to dehydration. There are several different hydration products from brands like Ergodyne that are designed for the job site. And this includes reusable water bottles, hydration packs, and coolers.
Dress for the weather: Wear loose, light-colored clothing that helps keep your body cool. Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics that don’t allow your skin to breathe. Our lightweight cotton work shirts and moisture-wicking fabrics help you stay cool working outdoors. Hi-vis mesh safety shirts and safety vests allow air to circulate, keeping you cool. And best-selling options are from brands like Radians, Kishigo, and Pyramex.
Take breaks: If you’re feeling overheated, take a break in a cooler area and give your body a chance to recover. And try to schedule strenuous activities for cooler times of the day, such as early morning or evening.
Know the symptoms: Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious conditions that can occur when your body gets too hot. Watch for signs like headache, nausea, dizziness, and confusion, and seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms.
What Are Heat-Related Illnesses?
Heat-related illnesses can be classified as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms that happen during heavy sweating. Heat exhaustion is a condition where the body is not able to cool itself and starts to overheat. This can cause symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. And heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness and it occurs when the body is unable to regulate its own temperature.
Consequently, this can lead to a body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and can cause seizures, confusion, and even comas. If you suspect that someone has a heat-related illness, it is important to call 911 immediately and cool the person down with whatever means necessary until medical help arrives. And this type of heat-related sickness can occur year-round if your work environment involves exposure to high temperatures. Workers in the roofing, fabrication, welding, and construction industries need to monitor any sign of heat exhaustion before it’s too late.
How to Protect Yourself from Heat Exhaustion at Work
When working in hot weather, it’s important to take breaks to cool down and avoid heat exhaustion. Here are some tips on how to stay safe and healthy:
1. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you. Use hydration packs and reusable water bottles to stay hydrated on the job site. And coolers from big to small will help keep your drinks cold throughout the day.
2. Take frequent breaks in a cool place, out of the sun if possible. And create shaded break areas with Ergodyne SHAX pop-up tents and work umbrellas. They are easy to transport and set up on the job site. Select from several different styles and colors.
3. Wear loose, light-colored clothing made of breathable fabric. And wear sun protection like hats, caps, and cooling gaiter masks. There are also reusable cooling headbands, bandanas, and towels that provide heat relief. The best-selling evaporative cooling gear includes the PIP EZ-Cool, Ergodyne Chill-Its, and Radians Arctic Radwear series. The OccuNomix MiraCool series also has affordable options in styles for men and women.
4. Slow down and take it easy – don’t try to work too hard in hot weather. And take frequent breaks while working during the hottest part of the day.
5. If you start to feel faint, dizzy, or nauseated, stop working and get into a cool area immediately.
Job Site Cooling Tips
– Wear light, breathable clothing
When working in hot weather, it is important to wear light, breathable clothing. Light-colored clothing reflects heat and helps keep you cool. And look for fabrics that wick away sweat, such as cotton or polyester. Avoid wearing tight clothing, as it can trap heat and make you more likely to overheat.
– Stay hydrated
One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from heat-related illness is to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, as they can dehydrate you. And take frequent breaks in a cool area to rehydrate.
– Limit time spent in direct sunlight
Also, when the temperature and humidity outside are high, your body has to work harder to maintain a normal internal temperature. And when this happens, you can become overheated and dehydrated more easily. To help prevent heat-related illnesses while working in hot weather, it’s important to limit your time in direct sunlight and take breaks often.
More Ways to Stay Cool
And if possible, schedule outdoor work for cooler times of day, such as early morning or evening. If you must be outdoors during the daytime, take frequent breaks in a shady or air-conditioned area. And drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Water is the best choice, but sports drinks can also help replace electrolytes lost through sweating.
– Take breaks in a cool area
If you are working outdoors or in a hot environment, it is important to take breaks in a cool area. This will help your body temperature to stay regulated and prevent heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and avoid alcohol or caffeinated beverages.
– Don’t skip meals and snacks
And when it comes to summer survival, one of the most important things you can do is to make sure you don’t skip meals and snacks. Doing so can lead to dehydration, which is a major risk factor for heat-related illnesses.
It’s important to stay hydrated during the summer months, but that doesn’t mean you should only drink water. In fact, eating regular meals and snacks is essential to keeping your body properly fueled and hydrated.
When it comes to choosing what to eat, aim for foods that are high in water content, such as fruits and vegetables. And be sure to avoid sugary drinks, as they can actually contribute to dehydration.
Top 5 Ways to Stay Cool on the Job
1. Drink lots of fluids, especially water.
2. Take frequent breaks in a cool or shady area.
3. Wear loose, light-colored clothing.
4. Don’t overdo it when working outside.
5. Acclimatize yourself to the heat gradually. And avoid activities that require a lot of physical activity during the hottest part of the day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keeping yourself safe and healthy during the summer is essential, especially when you are on the job. By following our top 5 tips for protecting yourself from heat-related illnesses such as dehydration and sunburns, you will be able to enjoy your summer without having any major health issues. So remember to stay hydrated, wear light-colored clothing, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, use sunscreen regularly, and seek medical attention if needed. With a little bit of extra caution this summer, you’ll have the best chance of staying safe while still enjoying your work outdoors!
