Summer can create additional challenges for construction crews. Long hours, heavy workloads, and more outdoor exposure can all raise the risk of heat-related illness on the jobsite. Construction companies and contractors need to have the right training and equipment in place before temperatures rise.

Heat safety goes beyond providing plenty of water and reminding workers to take their breaks. It’s also a jobsite planning issue. Contractors need to consider scheduling, work conditions, crew training, and equipment needs before high temperatures create additional risks.

Understanding OSHA Heat Safety Requirements on Construction Sites

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) General Duty Clause requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that can cause harm. OSHA considers many heat risk factors on construction sites, including high temperatures and humidity, physical exertion, protective clothing that traps body heat, and workers who have not yet adjusted to working in hot conditions.

Construction contractors should have a process for identifying risks and protecting workers when working conditions become unsafe due to heat. Make sure your plan addresses many key areas, like who is responsible for monitoring onsite conditions, how workers will be trained, and how breaks are handled. Site supervisors play an important role by monitoring conditions throughout the day and making sure crews know how to respond if someone shows signs of heat illness.

Common Heat Risks on the Jobsite and How Crews Can Reduce Them

During hot months, certain jobs can create additional heat exposure because workers spend extended periods outdoors or in direct sunlight. Roofing, paving, and other high-exposure activities may require extra planning to keep crews safe. That can include adjusting schedules to cooler parts of the day or rotating workers during more demanding jobs.

Make sure workers have access to plenty of water, shade, and a recovery area with cool air, if possible. Crews should also know the warning signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, confusion, and fatigue, so problems can be addressed quickly.

Having the right PPE available is another important part of jobsite preparation. Before summer projects ramp up, contractors should inspect existing safety equipment and replace damaged or worn items before crews need them. Planning ahead also gives them time to replace missing supplies before multiple projects are competing for the same equipment and materials.

Contractors should also make sure workers have the supplies needed for the conditions they’ll face onsite. This may include cooling accessories, protective clothing, eye protection, hard hats, and other safety supplies that help crews stay prepared throughout the workday.

Related Reading: Learn more about protecting crews from common jobsite hazards throughout the year.

Jobsite Safety Equipment That Helps Crews Stay Protected

PPE is only one part of a safe jobsite. Contractors also need equipment that helps control hazards, identify risks, and protect workers onsite.

365 Equipment and Supply provides safety equipment contractors can rely on to help manage jobsite hazards. Products include safety signage and barriers that help control active work areas, along with personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, hard hats, coveralls, and other essential supplies. Contractors can also find products like scaffold planks, tie-off signage, and additional safety accessories for demanding jobsite conditions.

Preparing a safe jobsite takes planning, especially when schedules are tight and crews are working through demanding summer conditions. At 365 Equipment & Supply, we work directly with contractors to help them find the safety supplies and equipment their projects require. As a family-owned company, we take a hands-on approach while still giving contractors access to trusted brands, a wide inventory, and the supplier relationships needed to support projects of all sizes.

Related Reading: Learn what to look for when choosing an equipment partner for your next project.

Prepare Your Jobsite Before the Heat Arrives

Summer construction schedules move quickly, and keeping crew safe requires preparation before the hottest days arrive. 365 Equipment & Supply helps contractors find the safety supplies, jobsite equipment, and materials they need to keep projects on track. With a team that understands the demands of construction, we can help you find the right products for your next project. Browse our safety supplies and talk with our team about finding the right equipment for your next job.