Working outside in the hot summer sun can be a challenge. Being prepared to work in the summer heat is essential for anyone in the marine industry. As a manager, it’s important that you focus on safety and provide your team the right tools both physically and mentally to handle working throughout the summer.
Hydration
If you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Prepare your team by providing them with water bottles and frequent breaks to drink what they need. You may also want to make sure they’re prepared with drinks that provide additional hydration help, such as electrolytes found in sports drinks.
Cooling
Working outside is necessary in a shipyard, but that doesn’t mean you can provide respite. Help your employee be prepared by providing shelter from the sun and cooling equipment. Don’t skip on breaks. Heat exhaustion and even heat stroke are significant risks. And sunburn can cause additional health concerns. Allow your team to prepare by using sunscreen or clothing that blocks UV rays. The right clothing can help provide cooling as well.
Concerns
Your job in the summertime is to watch for signs of exhaustion, dehydration, or even heat stroke. Make sure that you pay attention to signs that could indicate an employee is experiencing stress from working in tight hot spaces or outside in the direct sun. Encourage them to take breaks or contact emergency help if necessary.
Experts
There are heat safety experts out there that can help you ensure the safety of your marine staff in the summertime. Don’t be afraid to bring in a consultant to design a safety plan that will promote summer heat safety and injury prevention. This isn’t something you have to do alone, but it is essential for your productivity and safety in the summertime.
Work with a leader in shipyard staffing.
Do you want to know more ways to prepare your shipyard team for the summer heat? Contact Hutco today to learn more.
