Working in the Heat: Health and Safety Tips
Working construction in hot weather isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. Heat-related illnesses are a real risk, and the most serious of these is heat stroke. This medical emergency occurs when the body temperature rises above 104°F (40°C) and can lead to confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death if not treated quickly. Before reaching that point, workers may experience heat exhaustion, which causes heavy sweating, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. If not addressed early with rest, water, and cooling, heat exhaustion can quickly escalate into something much worse.
Other common issues on hot job sites include heat cramps—painful muscle spasms caused by salt loss through sweating—and heat rash, which leads to red, itchy bumps from blocked sweat glands. Even mild dehydration, often overlooked, can impair concentration and slow reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents on site.
Several factors can increase the risk of heat illness. High temperatures and humidity make it harder for the body to cool down, and direct sunlight or working near reflective surfaces like concrete or metal intensifies the heat load. Using hot equipment, wearing heavy or non-breathable PPE, and performing physically demanding work all add to the strain. When workers aren’t drinking enough water or taking enough breaks—especially those who haven’t yet acclimatized to the heat—the danger grows significantly.
To stay safe, workers need to take heat seriously. Drinking water frequently—before thirst kicks in—helps the body regulate temperature. Regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas give workers a chance to cool down and recover. Wearing breathable, light-colored clothing can also help. For those new to the heat, easing into the workload over the first few days allows the body time to adjust. Watching out for teammates and knowing the early signs of heat illness can make all the difference, and every worker should be trained on how to respond in case someone shows symptoms.
Employers have both a legal and ethical duty to reduce heat risks on site. OSHA’s “Water. Rest. Shade.” campaign provides simple but effective guidance: provide plenty of drinking water, encourage frequent breaks, and ensure there’s shaded rest space available. Training for both supervisors and workers is critical, along with planning work schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day when possible. Monitoring weather conditions, knowing the heat index, and having clear emergency response procedures are also essential. A written heat safety plan shows a serious commitment to worker well-being and helps ensure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day.
