Working outside in the summer presents a lot of hazards for workers and opportunities for heat-related injuries. As we approach the hottest months of the year, it is important to equip yourself with the best cooling products to prevent heat stress on the jobsite. If you’re looking for ways to beat the heat this summer, OPT has got you covered.

A construction worker cools off with a bottle of water while on the jobsite.

Cooling Products to Prevent Heat Stress

Keeping yourself protected from the sun is essential when working in the heat. Heat stress is not only the most common weather-related issue for workers, but it actually causes the most deaths per year out of weather-based hazards. First things first, if you are spending any time outside during the day, wearing sunscreen is a must. SPF 30 or higher is recommended at all times even on overcast days. Yes — unfortunately you can still get sunburnt when it is cloudy out. To keep yourself burn and wrinkle free, wear sunscreen whenever you’re outside and reapply throughout the day for the best protection.

We have a ton of different cooling essentials at Ohio Power Tool to keep you covered from head to toe. Cooling towels, bandanas, shading hats and visors, and lightweight evaporative clothing are great for keeping you shaded from the sun throughout the day. UV rays can actually penetrate through clothing depending on the color and material, so even if you are wearing long sleeves or pants, you can still get sun damage when working outside.

Hydration

Staying hydrated throughout the day helps ensure that your body will function properly. When your body doesn’t have enough water, it can cause muscle cramps, dizziness, low energy, nausea, weakness, and more. OSHA recommends drinking 8 oz. of water every 20 minutes when working in the heat, or 4 cups of water every hour if the temperature is 103 to 115°F. As the temperatures rise, make sure you are looking out for yourself and your coworkers. Having access to shaded areas, water refills, and fans will keep you feeling refreshed and energized throughout a long shift.

For an extra boost of hydration, All Sport electrolyte powders are low calorie, zero sugar, and give you 90% of your daily value of Vitamin C! These help replenish the crucial electrolytes that you lose through sweat when working in the heat for prolonged periods of time. For something to keep you extra cool and hydrated, check out All Sport Freezer Pops too!

Rest In Shaded Areas  

Shade tents from Ergodyne are perfect for providing protection from the sun in outdoor spaces.

OSHA often stresses the importance of “rest and shade” when spending extended periods of time outside. Having shade tents available on the jobsite helps provide people a shady place to cool down on a hot day. These shaded areas should have at least one wall to keep up to 75% shade in the area. These are also great places to keep food, water, and fans out of the sun.

When you’re not resting in the shade, wearing tinted safety glasses is a must to protect you from impact and the bright sun. Pyramex, Milwaukee, and PIP have great great options to choose from. You can also get anti-fog, anti-scratch, and readers if needed.

Eye protection is super important when working outdoors. Milwaukee has some protective and stylish tinted safety glasses to get you through the work day.

Taking extra safety precautions at work and providing your employees with extra supplies such as shade tents, sunglasses, water, and protective hot-weather gear are small ways to make a major difference in their overall productivity and satisfaction. If you want to learn more about the cooling gear we have available, give us a call at 800-242-4424, email us at sales@ohiopowertool.com, or leave a comment below for assistance. We’re always happy to help! To be the first to know about new products and deals, subscribe to our e-newsletter and follow us on our Trade Pro Outfitters social media!