When temperatures rise, so do the risks. As the leading cause of death among all hazardous weather conditions in the United States, extreme heat is a serious threat to outdoor workers engaging in strenuous physical activity, specifically construction workers.
While construction workers make up just 6% of the U.S. workforce, they account for over one-third of all heat-related work fatalities. From 2011 to 2022, 479 U.S. workers lost their lives due to environmental heat exposure – that’s an average of 40 deaths each year. And from 2021 to 2022, 4,910 employees had to take time off from work due to heat illnesses.
These numbers are a powerful reminder: heat is more than uncomfortable – it’s dangerous. Protecting your team from hazardous heat levels and related illnesses starts with awareness and action. Here are 10 practical ways to keep yourself and your team safe from heat stress this summer:
1. Ease Into It
New or returning to outdoor work? Don’t jump in full-throttle. Nearly three out of four fatalities from heat illness happen during the first week of work. To combat this, it’s crucial to ease into work to build tolerance to heat.
OSHA recommends following the 20% Rule: On the first day, work no more than 20% of the shift’s duration at full intensity in the heat. Increase the duration of time at full intensity by no more than 20% a day until workers are used to working in the heat.
2. Drink Water Even If You’re Not Thirsty
Stay ahead of dehydration by drinking a cup of cool water every 15-20 minutes. Skip the coffee, tea and alcohol, which can make dehydration worse.
3. Take Frequent Breaks
Frequent rest and recovery are key. Take breaks in a designated shady or cool area.
4. Dress Smart
Wear a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored, breathable, loose-fitting clothes. If your clothes become soaked, change them to prevent overheating.
5. Keep Air Moving
Use fans or ventilation to improve air circulation and help sweat evaporate faster. Good airflow = better cooling.
6. Start Early, End Early
Do physically demanding tasks in the early morning or evening when it’s cooler. Lighter workloads midday can keep productivity and safety on track.
7. Know Your Limits
Your physical condition matters. Being out of shape, pregnant or taking certain medications can increase your heat stress risk. Talk to a doctor if you’re unsure.
8. Watch for Warning Signs
Headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, slurred speech and dry, hot skin are red flags. If someone stops sweating, call 911 and start cooling them down immediately.
9. Look Out for Each Other
Buddy up. Verbally check on coworkers regularly and don’t wait to act if someone seems off.
10. Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Utilize TBG’s safety services and resources to raise awareness and review heat safety practices with your team.
Keep your team cool, safe and productive this summer. Contact TBG today to learn more about how our hands-on safety services can help keep your workforce safe and successful, no matter the season.