Leading the Way: Real-World Examples of Effective Heat Protection Measures for Outdoor Workers

In today’s rapidly changing climate, outdoor workers face increasingly challenging conditions. As global temperatures continue to rise, it’s crucial for businesses to prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees who work in the heat.

There are several ways that companies can protect their outdoor workers, and two businesses in particular have successfully implemented measures to keep their employees safe from extreme heat. By examining these examples, businesses of all industries can learn and implement effective heat protection measures for their own outdoor workers.

Heat-related illnesses occur when the body can’t regulate its temperature and cool itself down properly in extreme heat. These illnesses can range from mild to life-threatening, and can include:

• Heat cramps: A non-life-threatening condition
• Heat exhaustion: Can develop quickly or gradually over several hours or days
• Heatstroke: A life-threatening condition that can develop rapidly
• Heat rash: Itchy bumps that appear when sweat gets trapped under the skin

Safeguarding Against Heat-Related Illness: Aegion Coating Services LLC’s Innovative Approach

Aegion Coating Services LLC takes the health and safety of its employees seriously, especially in hot weather conditions. Through their subsidiary, Corrpro, they have implemented a heat management campaign that includes:

• Heat illness prevention training and weekly bulletins.
• Use of the OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety Tool app to monitor heat index.
• A custom-built app for reporting and evaluating heat exposures and responses.
• Supervisors’ participation in weekly and monthly audits.

As a result of these efforts, Corrpro’s 1,200 employees have not experienced any heat-related incidents in the past two years.

Beating the Heat: Prioritizing Employee Health at Schnetz Landscape Inc.

Schnetz Landscape Inc., located in San Diego, is no stranger to hot weather conditions and understands the potential risks it poses to their employees. This is why they have implemented a comprehensive heat management program that includes:

• Regular training on heat illness prevention for all employees.
• Distribution of weekly bulletins with tips and reminders.
• Emphasizing the importance of personal protective equipment, such as neck visors and head wraps made of treated fabrics that provide protection from UV rays and keep workers cool.
• Encouraging frequent breaks in shaded areas and providing access to cold water for hydration.

By prioritizing employee health and utilizing innovative solutions like specialized protective gear, Schnetz Landscape Inc. ensures that their workers are protected from the intense heat while also maintaining productivity levels.

Key Takeaways

By prioritizing employee health and implementing proactive measures, companies like Corrpro and Schnetz Landscape Inc. are setting an example for others in the industry. Some key takeaways from their efforts include:

• Creating a culture of safety by regularly training employees on heat illness prevention.
• Utilizing technology to monitor heat index and track exposure levels.
• Providing access to specialized protective gear that not only ensures safety but also increases comfort and productivity.

Final Thoughts

As extreme heat becomes more common and a greater concern for outdoor workers, it is crucial for companies to prioritize their employees’ health and well-being. By implementing comprehensive heat management programs, providing access to specialized protective gear, and regularly training employees on prevention techniques, businesses can protect their most valuable asset – their workforce.