Landscape crews are important for maintaining outdoor spaces throughout our communities. Tending to flowers, cutting grass, and maintaining shrubs and trees are all part of their daily tasks. These crews often work long hours in direct sun and high heat, which can be dangerous. Heat stress and heat illnesses can lead to health problems and missed work. How can employers keep their crews healthy during the hot summer months?
What is heat stress?
Heat stress occurs when the body cannot adequately regulate its internal temperature due to being exposed to high temperatures. Heat stress can lead to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration. Heat can also cause physical injuries, such as burns from touching hot equipment.
What are the early warning signs of heat-related illnesses on a job site?
Heat illnesses can come on quickly especially if workers have been spending a lot of time in hot temperatures. While heat exhaustion can be uncomfortable, heat stroke can quickly become fatal if left untreated. Ensure all employees are aware of these symptoms and are prepared to seek medical treatment for themselves or others.
Heat exhaustion symptoms
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Excessive sweating
Heat stroke symptoms
- Confusion or slurred speech
- Fainting
- Rapid pulse
- Seizures
- Very high body temperature
- Hot, dry skin
Why are landscape crews at risk for heat stress?
Landscape crews spend most of their workdays in the summer months outside exposed to the heat and humidity. They are often in direct sunlight and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) that can make it difficult to stay cool. In addition, their jobs involve heavy physical labor. All these risk factors make these employees especially vulnerable during the summer.
How can employers keep landscape crews safe in summer heat?
Here are a few practical tips for employers trying to keep their landscape crews healthy in the hot summer months.
Employers play a critical role in preventing heat stress and protecting landscape crews during the summer months. By planning ahead, training employees, providing water and rest, and responding quickly to warning signs, employers can help prevent serious illnesses and provide safer and more productive conditions for their employees.
