A host of agencies – NIOSH, CDC, OSHA, EPA, and FEMA joined forces to call attention to the importance of heat safety work practices this week for National Heat Safety Week.

According to the CDC, our bodies reduce the strain from excessive heat by sweating and increasing blood flow to the skin to promote cooling. Heat-related illnesses occur when heat exposure increases to the point at which the body can no longer cool itself.

Roofers are exposed to two forms of heat stress: exertional resulting from physical labor and environmental. Awareness and prevention are key to avoiding heat-related illness in roofing workers and other trades.

Key points to remember:

• Acclimatization of new and returning workers is critical.
• Hydration – dehydration is a leading risk factor for heat illness.
• Prior heat illness increases future risk.
• Supervisors monitor physical condition of workers; workers use “buddy system” to look out for signs of fatigue, illness in others.
• Heat tolerance can vary in an individual.
  • A recent illness can temporarily lower heat tolerance.
  • Medications can affect tolerance.
  • Alcohol use within 24 hours of working in heat raises risk.

Tri-State/Service Roofing & Sheet Metal Group is an experienced and safe roofing contractor. Our groups hold regular meetings with a full safety agenda that includes best practices for recognizing, preventing, and responding to heat-related illnesses. Through our “Working. Safe.” program, we are always working to improve safety performance and minimize risks like these each day–with a zero injury and illness goal.