As 4000 extra bottles of water and high-factor sun cream were delivered to one section of the HS2 project today, the CarmichaelUK team were on-site again conducting toolbox talks to check that our operatives are fully briefed on how to stay safe when working in high temperatures.
The CarmichaelUK team helped to deliver the extra water to our operatives and reminded them of the importance of staying safe themselves and keeping each other safe on site.
We've compiled our top tips for keeping cool on site this summer:
1. Hydration Station!
Drink plenty of water at regular intervals to stay hydrated. Experts suggest that we should be aiming for 3 liters of water each day. Alongside this, do your best to avoid drinks such as coffee, and fizzy drinks which contain diuretics and will cause you to become dehydrated.
2. Take cover
Take frequent breaks in the shade, and wear a sun cap where it is safe to do so. Where possible, avoid being in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.
3. Apply sun cream
An SPF of 30 or higher will ensure that your skin is protected, even on cloudier days. Remember you will need to reapply suncream throughout the day to ensure you are kept protected from the suns damaging UV rays.
4. Get an early start
Where possible, begin your day early to avoid the hottest temperatures of the day. The heat will usually peak from 2 pm until 6 pm so avoiding outdoor manual work during these hours is desired.
5. Know the signs
Heat stress can quickly result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes. It's important to know the signs and not overdo it in the heat. Typical symptoms of heat stress can include:
An inability to concentrate
Muscle cramps
Heat rash
Severe thirst - a late symptom of heat stress
Fainting
Heat exhaustion - fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache, moist skin
Heat stroke - hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions, and eventual loss of consciousness. This is the most severe disorder and can result in death if not detected at an early stage.
Find out more about Heat Stress from the Health and Safety Executive here.