If you manage or work on a demolition crew, then you work outside a lot, and in all sorts of weather conditions. Summer in particular can be especially hazardous to worker health and safety. Temperatures are high, you’re exposed to the scorching sun and you might not be drinking enough water to stay hydrated.
There are some warning signs of heat exhaustion that you want to be aware of—heavy sweating, dizziness, a rapid pulse, headaches and muscle cramps are the most common. If you notice one or more of these symptoms in a crewmember or yourself, stop what you are doing. Take a break or, if necessary, seek medical attention. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is characterized by a lack of sweating, flushed skin, mental confusion, nausea and vomiting, unusual breathing and a fast pulse.
Below, a demolition company in Kansas City shares some tips to help you stay cool when working at an outside job site:
- Stay hydrated: Don’t judge whether or not you are dehydrated based on thirst. Waiting until you are thirsty to drink water is not as beneficial as sipping water all day long. Drinking plenty of water (at least every 15 to 20 minutes) while on a job site is especially important to keep your body hydrated and your brain functioning. You can bring a cooler of water bottles to work, or invest in a reusable water bottle.
- Dress right: Though it might seem counterintuitive, covering up with clothing can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Wear lightweight fabrics and loose fitting clothing that can breathe to maintain a healthy body temperature. And if you can, wear a hat and sunglasses.
- Wear sunscreen: In addition to dressing right for the work site, apply an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapply it throughout the day. Recommended reapplication frequency varies, so read the bottle. Rub sunscreen all over, from head to toe, and don’t forget to sunscreen burn-prone areas—exposed areas of your scalp, your nose, under your eyes, your ears and the back of your neck.
- Cool off with water: Pouring or spraying cool water on your skin throughout the day is an effective method for cooling off. Drizzle water down the back of your neck, and spray your face. If you can, bring ice packs to the job site to periodically place on your wrists and behind your neck.
- Eat right: Working hard can make you hungry, but avoid eating a heavy lunch of meats and starches when you’re working in the heat. Instead, have some light snacks and meals throughout the day that include water-filled foods—think leafy greens, crunchy and watery vegetables, fresh fruits and nuts, all of which replenish electrolytes.
- Take breaks: Make sure you are taking your breaks! Take this time to get in the shade, wipe off your face, neck and arms with cool water, reapply sunscreen and rehydrate.
If you need the services of a reputable demolition company in Kansas City this summer, don’t hesitate to contact Midland Wrecking Inc. Call us today to schedule service!