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Hello ,
Here at United Asphalts we know the many perils that roofing jobs in the summertime heat can create for work crews. Help your crews stay safe with this list of tips on staying hydrated and avoiding heat related illness.
The summer months pose special hazards for roofing crews who not only have to battle mother nature but also must fight the strenuous effects of roofing jobs on the hottest days of the year. According to OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention
Campaign the three basic tenements of keeping workers safe in the heat are water, rest and shade.
- Continuous access to and use of water or other hydrating fluids like milk (yes, it’s true), Coconut Water, Gatorade or other sports drinks is critical. Stay away from sodas, alcoholic beverages, coffee drinks, lemonade, sweet teas and energy drinks - all of which have dehydrating effects!
- Rest is a must! The level of physical exertion associated with labor intensive jobs like roofing is as much of a factor as the air temperature when it comes to heat related illness. The only way to cool an overheated body is to take a break to allow the necessary reduction in body temp to occur.
- Shade or shelter from the sun is also a must to help crews recover from heat stress.
- Reduce workloads on the hottest days and allow new workers time to acclimate to the conditions.
- Monitor your crews for signs of heat related illness and educate them on how to treat the symptoms.
Work crews can successfully mitigate many of the dangerous effects of summertime labor by paying special attention to the following factors!
- Dress Appropriately: Choose the lightest-weight, lightest-colored and loosest-fitting clothing that is appropriate for the job at hand.
- Wear Sunscreen: Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. SPF 30 or higher and a formula that is sweat-resistant is ideal.
- Protect your eyes: Sunglasses that block harmful 99% or more of harmful UV rays are inexpensive and can be purchased at most convenience stores.
- Avoid heavy meals and warm food. Both will quickly add heat to your body!
- Know the signs! Click here to learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses
As manufacturers of the best roofing asphalt available today, we work with hot asphalt every day and understand the importance of safety during summer months. We hope this information helps your crews avoid any heat related illness.
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