As the summer heat intensifies, staying cool on the job site becomes a top priority for construction workers. Overheating can lead to heat illness, which can be dangerous if not properly managed. At State Electric, we prioritize the health and safety of our customers and their teams. Here are some key steps and procedures recommended by OSHA and a few product suggestions from our catalog to help you stay cool during these dog days of summer.
Key Steps to Prevent Overheating
1. Water, Rest, Shade: The Big Three OSHA emphasizes the importance of the "big three" when it comes to preventing heat illness:
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Water: Hydration is crucial. Workers should drink water every 15 minutes, even if they are not thirsty. Keeping a bottle of water handy and sipping regularly can prevent dehydration.
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Rest: Taking regular breaks is essential. It's important to rest in a cool or shaded area to allow the body to recover and cool down. Encourage workers to take breaks in designated rest areas to prevent heat stress.
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Shade: Providing shaded areas on the job site can make a significant difference. Whether it's a tent, canopy, or natural shade from trees, having a cool place to retreat to during breaks helps lower body temperature.
Training and Awareness
OSHA recommends training all employees about heat illness and how to control heat hazards. This includes recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, understanding the importance of hydration, and knowing how to respond in case of an emergency. Regular safety meetings and reminders can help keep heat safety top of mind.
Recommended Products to Stay Cool
At State Electric, we offer a range of products designed to help workers stay cool and safe on the job site. Here are a few recommendations:
1. Safety Cooling Products:
- Cooling Headbands and Helmet Liners: These are designed to be worn on the forehead or underneath a hardhat and provide cooling relief throughout the day.
- Cooling Towels: These towels can be soaked in water and worn around the neck to provide a cooling effect for hours.
- Cooling Bands: Klein Tool's Neck and Face Cooling Band can be worn wet or dry and has UPF 50+ protection.
2. Squincher Electrolyte Hydration: Hydration goes beyond just water. Squincher Electrolyte Hydration products help replenish essential electrolytes lost through sweating. They come in various flavors, including orange, lemon lime, mixed berry, fruit punch, and more! Or choose the Sqwincher® SQWEEZE® ZERO Hydration Freezer Pop.
Staying cool on the job site is not just about comfort; it's about safety and productivity. By focusing on water, rest, and shade, and utilizing the right products, workers can stay safe during the hottest days of the year. At State Electric, we're here to support you with the tools and knowledge you need to beat the heat.
Stay safe and cool this summer!
Zach Goad is a Commercial Sales Manager at State Electric and has been with the company for 14 years with extensive experience in the electrical distribution industry.
