7/20/22 - Zoro Staff
Keeping Your Crew Safe, Indoors and Out
Whether you're working outdoors on a jobsite in the dog days of summer or managing an indoor team in high-heat conditions, we've got the products you need to keep your crew members safe from the hazards of extreme heat, including heat stress, heat exhaustion, and dehydration. Here are our recommendations for heat safety products for both outdoor and indoor environments.
Outdoor Workers
Heat is the number one summer workplace safety concern. Not only is extreme heat highly dangerous to anyone working in high-temperature conditions—it can also be a silent attacker. You may not even realize the impact of rising temperatures, especially in the first days of the season. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 50 to 70 percent of heat-related fatalities occur in the early days of working in warm environments.[1] Heat stress can lead to serious conditions including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes. In addition, factors like sweaty palms and foggy worksite glasses can lead to a higher risk of injuries on the job. Combat the effects of high temperatures by limiting exposure as much as possible and using essential safety items, including heat stress kits, proper protective clothing, water, and electrolyte beverages.
| Beat the heat with these essential safety items: |
| Water | Electrolyte Beverages | Heat Stress Kit |
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| Make water available and have mandatory water breaks. A rule of thumb is to drink 8 oz. of water every 20 minutes. | Offer electrolyte-containing beverages. These drinks replenish necessary electrolytes workers lose while sweating. | Have a heat stress kit available with first aid supplies. At least one of your supervisors or crew members should be trained in first aid so someone can react quickly in case of an emergency. |
| Sun-Protective Clothing | Sunscreen | Insect Repellent |
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| Protect team members from the harmful effects of UV rays in outdoor environments with high-quality sun-protective clothing. | Encourage use of sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15. Be sure to cover all exposed skin. Remind workers to reapply every 2 hours. | Offer bug spray in areas where mosquitoes live. These pests can cause diseases and allergic reactions. |
Indoor Workers
Of course, outdoor workers aren't the only ones who can be affected by the hazards of extreme heat and hot environments. Indoor workers also deal with dangers related to exposure to heat. In many industries, air conditioning isn't always available in all areas. Fans may not be present either, as they may disrupt materials. In these cases, you're dealing with the same concerns as outdoor heat. According to OSHA, some of the jobs and industries affected by indoor heat include firefighters, bakery workers, farmers, construction, mining, boiler room workers, factory workers, and others. Thankfully, there are also safety products available to mitigate these hazards, including air conditioners, fans, and misting systems.
| Combat the heat with these products: |
| Misting Systems | Portable Utility Fans | Window/Wall Air Conditioners |
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Beating the Heat
The health and the safety of your crew are vitally important, and extreme heat can present a serious hazard in both indoor and outdoor environments. If you need heat-related products, search Zoro's wide selection of safety gear and more today. We offer many practical items to help ensure summer workplace safety in both indoor and outdoor workplaces. Looking for more information on working in hot outdoor environments? Learn more in our Resource Hub guide to working safely in the sun.
Sources
[1] https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatstress/index.htm
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.