Heat creates problems on jobsites. Dehydration is a serious medical issue when the average work-time temperature exceeds 85.
Supply plenty of water and encourage a few minutes in the shade every hour. Rotate employees so work continues while others rest; you want your people to be strong enough to work five days per week. For coverage related to performance venues and events, see Theaters Insurance.
Train your supervisors to detect the signs of heat-related conditions such as:
Signs of heat-related conditions
- dizziness or fainting
- headaches
- tremors
- stop sweating
- fatigue
- nausea
- sudden weakness
- anxiety
- cramps
If anyone shows these symptoms, require a rest and water break and evaluate the remainder of the crew. Plenty of water before workers become thirsty is key to prevention.
Be especially cautious when pouring concrete, particularly slabs, in hot weather. Concrete sets through an exothermic reaction, producing additional heat at the work surface.
Light-colored concrete reflects sunlight upward; combined with heat from the setting concrete, it creates a very hot work environment even on mild days.
A setting slab can be very hot to the touch when air temperatures exceed eighty degrees.
Asphalt work is extremely hot in summer. Require workers to drink water and check the air conditioners in dump trucks that haul hot asphalt; without cooling, three-hundred-degree asphalt and direct sun can dangerously overheat the driver.
Consider cooling tents on especially hot days. Shade with a light mist refreshes workers quickly and can shorten necessary rest periods.
Assure shade on site for lunch breaks or mid-morning breaks. Natural trees are best, but a lean-to or temporary canopy works; insist employees use the shade to rest and drink plenty of water.
A practical hydration check on the jobsite is the need to urinate every three hours—workers should aim to drink enough water to meet that goal. If an employee has symptoms of heat illness, they should rest and rehydrate; seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or do not improve.
For guidance on outdoor program risks and related coverage, see Summer Camps with Horseback Riding Insurance. If you need help choosing appropriate coverage, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the early signs of heat illness?
Early signs include headache, dizziness, nausea, cramps, and unusual fatigue; these should prompt immediate rest and hydration.
How often should workers take water breaks?
Provide frequent short water breaks—at least every hour—and encourage sipping water before workers feel thirsty.
When should a worker be moved to medical care?
If someone stops sweating, faints, shows confusion, or has persistent vomiting or severe weakness, seek medical attention right away.