How to Stay Cool at Work
June is National Safety Month and part of staying safe in the workplace is staying cool. In the summer months, hazardous heat exposure is common and can lead to heat exhaustion. Follow these simple steps to stay safe at work this summer:
-
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is an easy way to keep your body cool and safe. Our bodies naturally cool off by sweating and without proper hydration, the body cannot cool itself down. Take water breaks regularly and up your water intake when you are working in hot conditions. Sports drinks or coconut water can also help you hydrate by replacing the electrolytes in your body.
-
Wear Appropriate Clothing
When working in a hot environment, the clothing you wear can have a large impact on your body’s ability to stay cool. Lightweight fabrics allow sweat to easily evaporate and can help keep you cool and comfortable. Light-colored clothing also absorbs less heat than dark-colored clothing, so if you work outdoors, light colors will also keep you cooler.
-
Take Breaks
Taking breaks at work is always important for workplace safety but is especially important in hot conditions. Your body needs time to recover from activity. If you are working outdoors, find a shady, cool place to take a break, and be mindful of how long you are working in between breaks.
Working in a hot environment can be dangerous if safety guidelines are not followed. Follow these steps to protect yourself from heat illness. If you experience heat illness symptoms in the workplace, please contact your supervisor and Hughes Resources Staffing office or seek medical attention if necessary. Follow our blog for more tips.