Staying Cool on Your Construction Site
If only construction could happen in temperate weather every time! Unfortunately, it’s likely that you and your crew are going to have to work on a 90°F day where the heat is sweltering and it’s really easy to get overheated. While heat can be uncomfortable to work in, the real problem is the danger it presents to people who stay out in it for too long, working up a sweat. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn and heatstroke can all occur, seriously impacting the health of your workers.
FMI Equipment is your eastern Washington construction equipment dealer, located in Spokane Valley. Here are our best strategies for keeping your whole crew cool and healthy on a hot day on your construction site.
Make a Hydration Schedule
Staying hydrated is really important when you’re sweating a lot. Make sure that you’re avoiding caffeinated beverages and sticking to water or sports drinks with electrolytes every twenty minutes. Avoid consuming too much alcohol after work, since alcohol can dehydrate you, even the next day.
Take Regular Breaks
You and your workers will simply need to take more breaks during a hot, sweaty day. Make sure that you’re taking ten to fifteen minute breaks every 90 minutes or so. Everyone should have a cool place to go sit, whether it’s under a shady tree or in a trailer, and plenty of water and snacks to replenish their energy.
Wear Breathable Clothing
Heavy, dark-colored clothing is not the way to go when it’s hot outside. It’s important for your workers’ skin to be covered and for all protective gear (gloves, boots, helmet) to be worn. However, lighter weight fabric in pale colors and natural fabrics will help your workers to keep cooler. Look for clothing and equipment that has ventilation or sweat-wicking qualities for best results.
Schedule Work Times Strategically
If at all possible, try to schedule your workers’ shifts early in the day or later in the evening rather than during mid-afternoon, when the sun is at its zenith and therefore at its hottest. Complete the more challenging tasks while it’s still cool outside and then try to find lighter work in the shade to do during those hotter parts of the day.
We hope these tips help you and your workers to stay safe out there this summer. In need of some new construction equipment? Visit our dealership in Spokane Valley, WA, to check out our full stock of new and used construction equipment for sale. You can also ask our staff about our financing options if you’d like to use them to fund your purchase. FMI Equipment proudly serves the cities of Spokane, WA, and Coeur d'Alene, ID.