Workers can be exposed to dangerous conditions at any time. In the summer, employees who work outdoors face several hazards that are less common during other seasons. If you run a business, these are some challenges that you need to be aware of so you can take precautions to protect your team.

Heat-Related Illness

Prolonged sun exposure without adequate breaks can cause employees to experience heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. Age, medical conditions, and medications can make some workers more susceptible to heat-related illness than others.

Dehydration

Being outside in hot weather raises the body’s temperature and causes people to sweat more than usual. Performing a physically demanding job also makes workers sweat. People who work outside in hot summer weather need to drink a lot more water than they do at other times of the year, even if they don’t feel thirsty.

Hot Equipment

Machines and tools that are left outside on a sunny day will heat up if they’re not covered or placed in a shady area. Workers who touch hot equipment can suffer serious burns. Putting equipment in the shade or under tarps when it isn’t being used can be helpful. Requiring workers to wear gloves and posting signs warning of the danger are other ways to prevent injuries.

Workplace Accidents

Spending hours outside in the blazing sun can lead to confusion, disorientation, and lack of coordination. Employees may find it difficult to focus on their work and react more slowly than usual. That can lead to serious injuries, especially if workers use tools or heavy equipment to do their jobs. People who work in fields such as construction and agriculture are at particularly high risk.

Falls

Falls can happen in any season, but numbers can rise during the summer when construction projects are in full swing. Working in construction is inherently dangerous, and being outside in hot temperatures during the day can affect employees’ coordination, energy level, and ability to concentrate.

Collisions in Construction Zones

With construction projects taking place during the summer, accidents in work zones often spike. People who are driving and suddenly find themselves in work zones or who aren’t sure which lane to drive in can accidentally strike construction workers. Marking construction areas and posting signs telling drivers where to go can prevent collisions.

Keep Your Employees Safe This Summer

You can prevent workplace injuries by making sure that your employees have what they need to stay safe. In addition to providing plenty of water and time for breaks, you can issue personal protective equipment and use safety signs to warn workers and others of dangerous conditions.

You should also have first aid kits on hand at all times. 1^st Aid Supplies sells kits that contain bandages, gauze, over-the-counter medications, and other items that can be used to treat many common workplace injuries. Order first aid kits or cabinets online today.