Keeping Employees Safe on the Tarmac

We still have many weeks of weather with increased temperatures and humidity ahead.

While many people appreciate the warmer days that come with summer, higher temperatures can pose a threat to your employees, especially if they work outside. Direct sunlight, radiant heat, and increased humidity can increase the probability of heat-related illnesses including exhaustion, dehydration, and heat stroke.

Protecting your employees from the effects of the heat is a must. While bringing them into a temperature-controlled environment may not be an option, you can remind them to take additional steps to prepare and work in increased temperatures.  Here are some safety reminders to share with teams who work outside.

Summer-Safety Basics

1. Stay Hydrated – Drink Plenty of Water

One of the easiest ways to prevent heat-related illnesses and keep the body functioning properly is to drink enough water. Precisely how much is needed varies from one person to the next, but all employees working in the heat should always have access to cool, clean water.

Drinking small amounts frequently is often the best approach, allowing them to replenish any water they may be losing quickly and helping them avoid a state of dehydration.

2. Take Frequent Breaks

To combat rising temperatures, workers need to take breaks at regular intervals, particularly during the hottest portion of the day. While many employees may be tempted to work through their breaks, this can be detrimental to their health when increased temperatures and humidity are involved.

An appropriate work-rest schedule should be utilized with access to break areas with shade and increased ventilation.  Encourage employees to drink water during break periods.

3. Wear Sunscreen and Appropriate Clothing

Being out in the sun means sunburns are possible. Serious sunburns can be dangerous, so all staff members should wear sunscreen and loose comfortable clothing that covers the skin when working outdoors.

Make sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 50 available to employees working outside for extended periods of time.  Encourage employees to reapply sunscreen during break periods.

If high visibility clothing is required in the work area, make sure to select garments made from light breathable fabric. Consider the use of enhanced cooling garments that utilize water, ice, or other design features to enhance body cooling.

4. Be Vigilant

At times, it can be difficult to recognize signs of dangerous heat exposure in yourself, so encourage your staff to look out for one another and to speak up if someone appears to be suffering in the conditions. Teach employees about the symptoms of heat exhaustion and other heat-related conditions and make sure they are willing to say something if they see a coworker in a potentially dangerous situation.

For more information of heat-related illnesses, visit the Risk Management Resource Center at www.beaconais.com or contact RC@beaconais.com with specific questions.

For more information, check out these great references in our Beacon Library:

Flight Line Heat Illness Prevention

Heat Illness Checklist 

Basics of Heat Stress