Many construction companies are battling the summer heat, but the difference now compared to previous years is the unusually high temperatures in areas that have been previously cooler than reported this year. The Pacific Northwest experienced temperatures skyrocket and break multiple records. The thermometer soared to 115 degrees Fahrenheit in Portland and 108 degrees Fahrenheit in Seattle. The heatwave caused up to 100 deaths in Oregon, USA Today reported. The usual regional temperature in June is in the high 80s.
For the construction industry, the heat posed an unusual challenge in the region. The summer months provide more sunlight, which allows for longer workdays, but accommodating the risks of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Even though it was a record-setting month, it was not the first time the region had experienced heat strong enough to pose a serious health threat. Luckily, companies were equipped with the necessary tools and practices to keep workers safe.
Some examples of items and practices companies used to battle the heat and keep their employees safe included:
- Pop-up tents and cooling stations installed on site
- Moving work inside during times of extreme heat
- Creating work and rest cycles so no employee was in the heat for too long
- Providing electrolyte packs and popsicles to maintain worker hydration
Some contractors have also advised workers to wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, UV sunglasses and use plenty of sunscreen.
OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention campaign narrows down a basic but important message: “Water, rest, shade.” The agency suggests companies should be providing workers with hydration, giving them time to acclimate to working in the increasing heat, plan for emergencies and monitoring workers for the signs of illness. In addition to giving workers the chance to build up to heavy work and get acclimated to the summer, teams should focus on the hardest construction tasks during the coolest part of the day.
In any season, extreme weather events such as heatwaves and damaging storms are becoming more frequent, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Months before the massive heat wave struck the Pacific Northwest, the Midwest experienced a cold snap that put a strain on power grids in states like Texas. Construction crews battle the weather daily, and with intense weather events increasing in frequency, it’s vital workers and their employers know what to look for.
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