17 Jun Keep Outdoor Employees Safe This Summer
When your business requires employees to work outside, it’s so important to keep them safe from the elements to avoid accidents and injuries. Safety is especially critical during these hot summer months when the sun is scorching, and there doesn’t seem to be much respite to cool down. According to OSHA, there are many occupational factors that may contribute to heat illness:
- High temperature and humidity
- Low fluid consumption
- Direct sun exposure (with no shade) or extreme heat
- Limited air movement (no breeze or wind)
- Physical exertion
- Use of bulky protective clothing and equipment
But when the summer temperatures start to rise, what can you do? Closing the business is not an option. Here are some things you can do to make it a bit easier:
- Advise employees to drink water every half hour or so. Waiting until thirst sets in might be too late to take a drink since thirst is the first sign of dehydration.
- Provide shade stations for employees to get out of the sun periodically.
- Protective clothing made of natural fibers will keep the sun away while also being able to “breathe” on warm skin.
- Sunscreen is important for those areas of skin that may not be protected by clothes. Reapplying often is also important.
- Work on a moderated schedule so employees don’t have to be exposed to the elements for long periods of time.
- If an employee shows any sign of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, move them into a cool area out of the sun and get medical assistance immediately.
Your employees’ safety should be your top priority when running your business. Contact us if you have any questions about how your worker’s compensation insurance would help injured employees and cover your business in the event of an accident or injury.
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