By K C Pawling, Road Safety and Loss Prevention Specialist
Change, not many people like it, but no one can live without it. I think every county worker in the history of dirt has heard the phrase, “this is the way we’ve always done it, why change now?” While this is NOT an article about changing the standard operating procedures of the county road department, it is about a necessary change, acclimation. What is acclimation, you ask? Well, let’s talk about it.
The acclimation that I am speaking about is acclimating to a hot weather work environment, especially if you’re transitioning from a cooler environment. This change requires a strategic approach to help your body adapt safely and effectively. Here are some best practices to follow:
- Gradual Heat Exposure
- Start slow: Begin with short periods of work in the heat (30–60 minutes) and gradually increase over 1–2 weeks.
- Follow the 20% rule: Increase exposure by no more than 20% per day for employees not used to working outside.
- For employees with experience working outside, the duration periods can be longer and more frequent. For example, 50% of the usual duration on the first day, 60% on the second day, 80% on the third day and 100% on the fourth day.
- Gradual exposure can also be done by beginning your day outside of the air conditioning as early as possible. Your body will change with the rising temperature throughout the day.
- Stay Hydrated
- Drink water often: Aim for 1 cup (8 oz) every 15–20 minutes.
- Start drinking water early, preferably BEFORE work begins. Get ahead of dehydration but also do not stop after work has ended. Keep drinking until your activity level has decreased at the end of the day.
- Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks during your workday; they can dehydrate you.
- Electrolytes: Use sports drinks or electrolyte tablets if you are sweating heavily.
- Make cool water access easy, provide coolers that can be used to carry water to the job site.
- Dress Appropriately
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing.
- Use UV-protective gear and wide-brimmed hats if working outdoors.
- Listen to Your Body
- Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat.
- Take breaks in shade or air-conditioned areas.
- Use the buddy system to watch each other for heat stress.
- Improve Physical Fitness
- A fitter body adapts more efficiently to heat.
- Incorporate cardiovascular training and hydration habits into your routine.
- Time Your Work Wisely
- Schedule the most strenuous tasks during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon).
- Some counties start an hour earlier during the summer, for example, work from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Rotate tasks to limit prolonged heat exposure.
- Use Cooling Strategies
- Use cooling towels, fans, or ice packs during breaks.
- Consider cooling vests for prolonged outdoor work.
In summary, you may not be able to put all 7 of the strategies listed above into play. That’s understandable but do your best to implement as many as you can. Reach out to your managers and have the necessary conversations. If your department has a safety committee, this is a terrific opportunity for them to act and make a difference. If I can be of any help, let me know. I can be reached at kcpawling@nirma.info or 402-310-4417.
