How to Prevent Heat Injuries on the Construction Site

There are no desk jobs for construction workers. Whether a laborer, an expert in a trade, a sub-contractor or even a site supervisor, construction demands physical exertion. As a by-product of this, site workers often have to contend with sometimes life-threatening, heat-related injuries. These injuries not only effect the individual but performance on site as well. But with some basic education and foresight, everyone on the job can continue to work regardless of how hot the sun may be.

Instructions

1. Hydrate the body. This is probably the single most important prevention method in avoiding heat related injuries. Don't wait until thirsty to drink. The time to hydrate is at regular intervals throughout the work day, whether on break or during the task at hand. Hydration doesn't mean drinking until it hurts. Hydration means a regular, steady intake of water throughout the course of the day. If the work site is someplace where the heat is unusually high, like the Southwest, plan on coupling water with a tablespoon of powdered Gatorade. Gatorade's ingredients are a form of oral dehydration salt and provide the body with much of what is lost through heavy perspiration. To do this cheaply, simply add a 1 tsp. salt and 8 tsp. sugar to a quart of water.

2. Know the signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Recognizing the symptoms, especially for heat stroke, can mean the difference between life and death. Preparation also means bringing along items that will facilitate a safe day on the job. If working remotely, this is especially important. This will include everything from the weather forecast to a 5-gallon container of water to emergency plans in case of heat illness.

3. Avoid dehydration. If there is a long, hot day ahead, avoid too much alcohol the night before. Coffee intake should also be kept to a minimum. Both of these liquids are diuretics. Diuretics diminish the body's capacity to hydrate itself by consuming more water than is available. Alcohol, in particular, is especially worth avoiding. When hungover, part of the nastiness that is felt is from dehydration. Heading to the work site in this condition is both unsafe to the individual and potentially to others.

4. Protect the body from exposure. Skip the baseball cap and instead choose a wide-brimmed hat made of light cotton. Besides the necessary pair of sturdy boots, keep clothing material on the light side as well. Additionally, it is unlikely that any construction worker is going to wear long sleeves on a site, but using a sun block of SPF 50 or higher on exposed areas will give some measure of protection as well.

5. Work during cooler hours if at all possible. Working during the sun's peak hours, roughly between 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., means workers expand their risk of heat-related illnesses. Most job sites start at 7:00 a.m. and finish up at 3:00 p.m. But in places like Arizona, where the sun is often at its worst, the day often starts before sunrise at 5:00 a.m. and finishes up by noon. Though construction jobs are rarely flexible in terms of hours, if workers petition their supervisor collectively, and especially in matters of worker safety, there is a good chance contractors will consider starting the day earlier. It can be argued that this will ultimately mean more productivity on the job and this bodes well for all concerned---client, contractor and workforce.

6. Pace yourself. Exertion is part of the construction life. Most contractors and sub-contractors have deadlines that have to be met. Other phases of construction often cannot begin until another is finished. With this in mind, there is no room for anything other than getting the job done. But in the end, the individual worker must take care of himself. A steady work rate can still be maintained that will satisfy both site supervisors and, at the same time, maintain the crew's health. Pace plays an important role in heat-related injuries. Union jobs have regularly-scheduled breaks. Non-union jobs, though less regulated, also call for breaks. Workers would be wise to take these breaks in their entirety. On the hottest days, the crew should also pace themselves so they can sustain their efforts throughout the day. Lastly, the crew should be informed that if they do feel any heat-related symptoms, they should simply stop for a minute or two and check in with themselves. A good worker is a healthy one, not one flat on their back.

Tips & Warnings

• Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be life threatening. Knowing the symptoms can save a life. Pay close attention if during the workday any of the following symptoms appear individually or in combination: thirst, headache, dizziness, hot-dry skin, cramps, nausea, confusion, weakness, rapid breathing, weak but rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure and unconsciousness. Contact a supervisor or emergency services as soon as possible if these symptoms appear.

References

• Heat Illness information