Working outdoors in the summer can be rough. When temperatures rise past comfortable levels, you’re still expected to get the job done. It’s important to abide by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) rules and regulations regarding heat, because nothing is more than your health and safety.

Follow these guidelines to protect yourself from the heat when working outside this summer.

Drink Plenty of Water

OSHA recommends drinking water every 15 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty. It might seem incessant, but it’s not. This helps regulate your body temperature, so make it a priority.

Spend Time in the Shade

Spending all day in the bright sunshine is a health hazard waiting to happen. Find a shady spot and retreat to it during breaks to lower your body temperature.

Dress Appropriately

The attire you wear to work can heavily make or break your chances of incurring a heat-related illness. OSHA advises wearing a hat and light-colored clothing, which will help shield you from the sun, without causing your body temperature to rise. Heavy materials and dark colors can actually cause you to heat up faster.

Know What to Do in an Emergency

Catching a heat-related illness in its early stages can literally mean the difference between life and death. You need to know how to recognize the signs of heat sickness, in case you or a colleague begins to feel unwell. Find out exactly what to do in the event of an emergency, so you can act fast.

Look Out for Your Co-Workers

Keep a close watch on those around you, because preventing heat-related injuries is a team effort. You’d want your co-workers to do the same for you, so make it a priority to ensure everyone is in a good place throughout the day.

Pace Yourself

Working in the heat takes a toll on your body, so ease your way into it. Take it slow your first few days on the job, because too much, too fast can be detrimental to your health. Even if you’ve been working outdoors in the summer heat for years, going easy the first few days is still a good idea, so your body can re-acclimate to the weather.

Wear Sunscreen

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing an SPF 30, water-resistant sunscreen at all times when outdoors. Apply it to dry skin 15 minutes before heading outside, and continue lathering up at least every two hours.

 

At Premium Staffing, Inc., we strongly believe worker safety is paramount. Whether you’re a job seeker ready to explore new opportunities or an employer looking to fill a high-level engineering or manufacturing position, feel confident in knowing we share your values. Contact us today to get started!

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