Heat Stress and Its Impact
Heat stress happens when the body struggles to regulate its internal temperature. This can quickly lead to serious health risks, especially in hot, physical environments like construction sites.
Watch out for early signs:
- Sweating
- Fatigue
- Thirst
If ignored, this can escalate to:
- Heat exhaustion – heavy sweating, weakness, headaches, nausea
- Heat stroke – confusion, fainting, dangerously high body temperature (a medical emergency)
Heat Safety Tips for Your Site
Hydration
- Encourage water breaks every 15–20 minutes, even without feeling thirsty
- Set up hydration stations with cool, easily accessible water
Breaks
- Provide shaded or air-conditioned rest zones (GAP Welfare Units are ideal)
- Schedule more frequent breaks between 11am–3pm, the hottest part of the day
- Rotate staff to limit sun exposure
Clothing and PPE
- Opt for lightweight, breathable PPE when possible
- Include UV-protective hats, neck coverings, and sunglasses
Heat Acclimatisation
- Gradually reintroduce new workers or those returning from leave
- Start with lighter duties or shorter shifts for the first 5–7 days
By implementing these measures, you can protect your workers’ health, reduce downtime and maintain productivity, even in the height of summer.
Work Schedule Adjustments
Where possible, work should be carried out in the cooler parts of the day to avoid the midday heat. Rotate tasks across the team, to ensure workers are carrying out a fair share of physically demanding and less strenuous jobs, to prevent overexertion and keep energy levels up.
Equipment Safety in Summer
Heat affects more than just people; it impacts equipment too.
Keep machinery running safely by:
- Checking coolant levels, filters, and engines regularly
- Storing fuels and chemicals away from direct heat
- Using fans, misting systems, generators, and welfare units to reduce overheating
Stay Cool. Stay Compliant. Trust in GAP
From portable fans and AC units to fully equipped welfare facilities, GAP has everything you need to keep your site safe and productive throughout the summer. With our nationwide support and extensive hire fleet, we’re here to help you beat the heat.
Contact us today to find the right summer solutions for your site.
