As temperatures climb across Oklahoma, people who work outdoors or tackle yard projects at home face an increased risk of heat-related problems.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends planning ahead before spending extended periods outdoors, especially when temperatures and humidity are high. Humidity can make it harder for sweat to evaporate, reducing the body’s ability to cool itself and increasing the risk of heat stress.
Start early when possible
One of the simplest ways to reduce heat exposure is to schedule strenuous tasks during cooler parts of the day.
Yard work, construction projects, landscaping and other physically demanding activities are often safer in the morning before temperatures peak.
Water, rest and shade matter
OSHA’s heat safety campaign centers around three key principles: water, rest and shade.
Workers and homeowners should drink water regularly throughout the day, take breaks before they begin feeling overheated and seek shade or air-conditioned areas to cool down.
Rest breaks should become more frequent as temperatures, humidity levels and workloads increase.
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Take time to adjust to the heat
People returning to outdoor work after time away, or those beginning a new job, may need time to adapt to hot conditions.
Federal safety officials recommend gradually increasing time spent working in the heat over several days. This process, known as acclimatization, allows the body to become more efficient at handling high temperatures.
New workers are often at greater risk for heat-related problems because their bodies have not yet adjusted.
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Dress for the conditions
Light-colored, loose-fitting and breathable clothing can help the body stay cooler while working outdoors.
Workers wearing protective equipment or heavy clothing may be at greater risk because the gear can trap heat and limit cooling.
OSHA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommend adjusting work schedules and increasing breaks when protective equipment is required.
Use the buddy system
OSHA and NIOSH encourage workers to keep an eye on one another during hot weather.
Whether working on a construction site or doing yard work with friends or family, having someone nearby can help ensure signs of heat-related trouble are noticed quickly.
Supervisors and co-workers are encouraged to watch for changes in behavior, confusion or other warning signs that someone may need assistance.
Checking the forecast is important, but the air temperature alone does not tell the whole story.
Humidity, direct sunlight, wind conditions and workload all affect how hot it feels to the body. OSHA recommends monitoring heat conditions and adjusting work schedules when heat stress risks increase.
Workers have the right to a workplace free from recognized safety hazards, including heat-related hazards. Employees who believe their workplace is unsafe can file a confidential complaint with OSHA and request an inspection.
OSHA also prohibits employers from retaliating against workers for raising safety concerns.
More information is available at OSHA’s Workers’ Rights Page.
