Normally when we hear the news that the sun is in the forecast we go out and try to enjoy it. Working outside in hot weather means there is an increased amount of sun exposure during these sunny spells. However, during a heatwave being outside can come with added risks and precautions should be taken for health and safety.
It is prudent to remember that too much sunlight is harmful to your skin. It can cause skin damage including sunburn, blistering and skin ageing and long-term sun exposure can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK yet more than 9 in 10 melanoma skin cancer cases are preventable. A tan is a sign that the skin has been damaged by ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight.
Who is most at risk working during extreme heat conditions?
People that spend an extended amount of time working outdoors, such as builders, are particularly at risk. If work keeps you outdoors for a long time your skin could be exposed to more sun than is healthy for you. Hence, you should take particular care if you have
- fair or freckled skin that doesn’t tan, or goes red or burns before it tans
- red or fair hair and light-coloured eyes
- a large number of moles.
Tips for working outside in hot weather
Do
- have frequent rest breaks and rest in shaded areas
- wear sunscreen
- wear clothing that will wick sweat away from the body
- wear a wrap-around sun visor or similar to protect face and neck from sun exposure
- drink plenty of cool water
- try freezing a bottle of water to take with you in the morning, as the ice melts you’ll have a cool supply of water
- remove personal protective equipment when resting to help encourage heat loss
- recognise the early symptoms of heat stress.
Avoid
- waiting until you are thirsty to drink. If you are thirsty you are already dehydrated.
- instead, drink smaller amounts at regular intervals
- consuming caffeinated beverages, as this has a diuretic effect which increases water loss and dehydration
- working during the part of the day with the sun is at its peak
- instead, try and work early morning or late evenings where possible.
Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke
Signs of heat exhaustion may include
- a headache
- dizziness and confusion
- loss of appetite and feeling sick
- excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
- cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
- fast breathing or pulse
- a high temperature of 38C or above
- being very thirsty
- More information about what to do can be found on the NHS website.
Useful Links:
- HSE guide – Outdoor Working
- NHS heatwave guide – How to cope in hot weather
- pbctoday – Working safely on a construction site during a heatwave
- Staying indoors? – why not check out some of our latest projects.
