Workers working outdoors or in confined spaces are exposed to greater risks when the heat is very hot: here are 10 ways to reduce the effects of a heatwave.
Heatwave tips - Delta Plus
Expertise
Update 01.10.24
Increased risks at work during heatwaves
Climate change is leading to an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, disrupting working conditions in a wide range of sectors, including construction, agriculture, glassmaking, steelmaking and power grid maintenance.
But working in sweltering heat poses a number of risks: dehydration, fatigue, sunburn, sunstroke, short-term loss of alertness, etc.
The risk of errors, accidents and injuries increases significantly, which is why it's so important for companies to be familiar with and apply a few essential measures during heatwaves.
To find out more: discover the obligations of companies at each weather alert level
10 good practices at work in hot weather
1-Stay hydrated: Drinking water frequently, even when you're not thirsty, is essential. Bottles, water fountains or drinking water on worksites must therefore be readily available. The French Ministry of Labour recommends 3 litres of water per day per worker in the construction and public works sector.
2-Take more frequent breaks in air-conditioned or shaded areas, where the air is renewed.
3-Install cooling systems where possible: air conditioners, blinds, solar protection films, misters.
4-Protect yourself from the heat and UV rays with light, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing. Cover your head with a wide-brimmed cap, wear sunglasses and, if possible, apply sun cream to unprotected areas.
5-Reorganise work: adjust schedules, work rates, staff rotas and tasks to avoid prolonged physical exertion during the hottest part of the day.
6-Pay attention to employees who are most vulnerable because of their age or health problems.
7-Inform employees about the symptoms of heatstroke: headaches, dizziness, rapid pulse and breathing, vomiting, disorientation, even loss of consciousness.
8-Train employees in first aid if they or one of their colleagues is suffering because of the heat. Stop all physical effort, move into the shade in a ventilated area, drink and call for help if you lose consciousness.
9-Encourage teamwork so that workers can detect heat stroke in one another or call on a colleague if they feel unwell.
10-Disseminate these instructions to all employees via posters, newsletters, briefings before each worksite, etc.
Don't neglect wearing PPE even during heatwaves
In these intense thermal environments, it can be tempting to uncover your body and take off your helmet or gloves. Wearing wrap-around protective footwear can also be uncomfortable when the thermometer spikes.
Beware: ignoring personal protective equipment can put workers at risk and be a source of injury or error. This is the case, for example, with sweaty hands if gloves are removed.
It is therefore essential to wear PPE adapted to these extreme conditions. That's why Delta Plus offers breathable, quick-drying technical clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable protective T-shirts with reflective strips,
- Breathable parka that can be combined with Fast, rain and warmth to ensure visibility day and night,
- low, lightweight shoes with good breathability,
- Ventilated caps that can be seen from a distance, with 3 visor lengths,
- neck protectors that protect against the sun and fit all Delta Plus protective helmets.
Delta Plus has also developed a new range of graphene garments with heat-regulating properties, perfectly suited to work in extreme heat: find out more about the benefits of this innovative material.
Because our design teams are there for you all year round, to help you adapt to your working conditions, discover our modular PPE for winter.