Written by: Emily Joswiak • March 2, 2022• Safety

Best Hacks for Staying Cool When on the Job Site

Following the best hacks for staying cool when on the job site is beneficial for laborers who are constantly outsides working under the hot sun.

Working outside has its benefits: enjoying the fresh air, a new change of scenery, and not being in a confined space all day. However, it also has its detractors, particularly if the heat index surpasses triple digits. Knowing the best hacks for staying cool when on the job site can help you get through a strenuous day.

Start the Day Early

The air temperature usually reaches its highest point between 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm, which is why you should begin your day ahead of schedule. These things are even more critical if you can finish up before the sun comes out and it is toasty outside.

If you can’t escape the heat completely, taking regular breaks in the shade is a smart strategy to avoid heat exhaustion. It would be best if you took a five-minute break in a shaded area at minimum when you show signs of heat stress.

Dress Appropriately

Workers should wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing when heat is a factor, notably if welding adds to the scorching temperatures. Moisture-wicking clothes are always a wise decision because they help you get rid of the sweat from your body. This makes it easier for your body to cool down quickly, which is essential in humid places where sweat evaporation is more complicated.

Heat Index Concerns

Employers and their employees should always be aware of the heat index, which is how hot it is where they work. The heat index takes the air temperature and relative humidity into account. As previously stated, when the humidity is too high, sweat doesn’t evaporate, which makes the body less able to cool itself down. Dehydration can happen if there isn’t enough humidity in the air. For these reasons, the heat index paints more of a picture of the day ahead and when you should start.

Stay Hydrated

When you’re thirsty, opting for some cool water helps revitalize you. Sports drinks and coconut water are also options to get electrolytes with some flavor.

Coffee, sodas, and alcohol are drinks to stay away from because they make you dehydrated. Some of the signs of dehydration are thirst, dry mouth, puffy tongue, failure to sweat, lack of strength, lightheadedness, and dark urine. If you have any of these symptoms, you should rest and drink something immediately.

Use Sunscreen

Anyone who works outside should wear sunblock. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can reach you even on overcast days, and you can still get a burn. Try to find a sunscreen that is either sweat-proof or waterproof, so you have protection when you start your shift. Reapplying sunscreen with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and avobenzone is pertinent when you’re outside for a long time. Additionally, it helps to wear a hat and eyewear to limit the sun’s effects on you.

Using the best hacks for staying cool when on the job site prevents heat-related illnesses or injuries. You always want to return home in the same shape you went to work in, so don’t try and tough it out if you aren’t feeling like yourself.

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Last modified: March 3, 2022