The summer heat adds additional stress to workers in the construction industry. The work environment can become dangerous without taking precautions to avoid heat stroke or exhaustion. By following these construction safety tips, you can prevent injuries on the job site.

Drink Water

Drinking water is the easiest way to combat heat illness. Be sure to take frequent breaks to drink water and keep from dehydrating. Unlike sodas and other sugary drinks, water regulates the body’s core temperature and maintains regular body functions.

Plan a Work Schedule Carefully

If possible, plan work schedules around the hottest part of the day. Try to schedule work in the morning or evening hours. Plan to work indoors on the hottest days and save outdoor work for more bearable dates.

Wear Weather Appropriate Clothing

Another important construction safety tip worth implementing is wearing gear than offers protection and relief from the heat. For example, mesh safety vests are lighter and allow air to pass through. Hi-Vis reflective summer clothing is breathable and repels sunlight, keeping your body cooler. Also consider nap protection for the back of your neck or a Miracool headband.

Take Breaks

On hotter days, work will need to be completed slower to ensure the safety of all workers. Take breaks even if you feel like you can keep going. Doing so will prevent injury and keep your body from reaching a high temperature that it can’t cool back down from.

Learn the Signs of Heat Illness

It is important to know the symptoms of heat illness. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body is becoming overheated to the point where it has difficulty cooling off. Symptoms include cool skin with goosebumps despite being in the heat, intense sweating, dizziness and fatigue, muscle cramps, nausea, headaches and a rapid, weak pulse. Untreated, heat exhaustion can result in a heat stroke. Heat strokes are severe, often resulting in fever or unconsciousness.

Knowing the symptoms of heat illness can prevent serious injury on the job site. By following these construction safety tips, your crew can safely complete work without becoming overheated.