Safety in the Heat of the Summer
As carpenters, our work is often outdoors in sunlight or in hot enclosed spaces increasing risk for heat-related illness regardless of your age or physical condition. Learn more about heat hazards and how to be proactive as you move into the hot summer months.
KEEP SAFE IN THE HEAT
Drink water even if you aren’t thirsty – every 15 minutes
Watch out for each other
Wear loose, light-colored clothing
Rest in the shade
THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF HEAT ILLNESS TO WATCH FOR
Heat Exhaustion
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Sweaty skin
- Fast heartbeat
- Nausea, vomiting
- Weakness
- Muscle cramps
Heat Stroke
- Red, hot, dry skin
- High temperature
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Convulsions
If you are working with someone that is showing signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke call 911.
Move to the shade, and encourage them to drink water or a sports drink.
Need water on your job site? Call us at (877) 745.9555
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SKIN CANCER
- Wear tightly-woven and loose-fitting long sleeve clothing.
- Protect the back of your neck with a cloth flap that attaches to your hard hat.
- Wear safety glasses that protect against UVA and UVB radiation. They can be clear, lens color has nothing to do with protection.
- Stay in the shade as much as possible and when taking breaks.
- Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen SPF30 or higher. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect you against UVA and UVB radiation.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after excessive sweating.
- Examine your skin from head-to-toe every month for changes in moles, new growths, or sores that will not heal.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Employers are responsible for protecting workers from extreme heat, including:
Providing the crew with water, rest, and shade.
Allowing new and returning workers to progressively increase workloads and take regular breaks as they build a tolerance for working in the heat.
Planning for emergencies and training workers on prevention.
Monitoring workers for signs of heat illnesses.
Learn more about safety in hot weather at the Center for Construction Research and Training.