If you work in the hot summer sun, you run the risk of heat illness. You can use several safety tips to protect yourself from heat exhaustion. When your job requires that you work in high temperatures, use as many of the following safety tips as possible to keep yourself safe and healthy.
Drink Plenty of Water
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. If possible, try to consume at least one pint every hour while you are working in the heat. Avoid caffeine that may dehydrate you and cause you to lose more fluids. Freeze your water bottles and keep them in a cooler while at work. They will melt slowly and provide a cool, refreshing drink of water any time you need it.
Adjust Your Work Schedule
Preferably, adjust your work schedule so that you are not working outside during the hottest part of the day. Instead of working during the afternoon, go to work earlier in the morning so that you complete your work by noon.
Wear Clothes That Hold Heat
Waterproof clothing that is rain-resistant can trap heat. Wear clothing that is lightweight and light in color. Carry additional changes of clothes so you can change your clothes if needed. Tightly knitted fabric can often trap heat. Try to avoid wearing those fabrics during the heat of the day.
Wear Cooling Gears
Wrap wet neck towels around your neck and shoulders. Cooling vests are also available that keep the body cool and prevent you from overheating. Loosely fitting clothing allows air to travel between the clothing and the body, keeping it cool and preventing heat from being trapped.
Alter Your Environment
Portable cooling units can be used to cool small, isolated areas when trying to cool a large area is unreasonable. This gives your workers a chance to cool off for short periods of time throughout the day. Making small changes to your environment may be able to protect your employees from heat illness.
Monitor Body Functions
Urine that is dark yellow in color is a sign of dehydration. Another sign of dehydration is a substantial decrease in the amount of sweat that is produced when the body is exposed to high heat. It’s essential that you monitor your body’s functions at various times during the day.
Adjust to the Heat Slowly
If you are starting a new job where you will be working in the heat, you will want to expose yourself slowly to the high temperature. Gradually building up your tolerance to the heat will lower your risk of heat exhaustion. This may take a couple of weeks to accomplish, so it’s important to take your time.
Know the Signs of Heat Distress
If you start to notice that you are not sweating as much or that you are starting to feel lightheaded, it’s important that you get out of the sun immediately. If you experience heat cramps, seek urgent care immediately.
Consult with Family Financial Insurance Group
Heat exhaustion can be fatal if not addressed immediately. Contact our agents here at Family Financial Insurance Group for more information on how to manage heat stress. Our agents have the information you need so that you will be able to prevent the condition from occurring; call and schedule an appointment today.