As we know, it gets hot and humid in the summer, so let’s take the time and do our due diligence. Please drink fluids as they are important and needed for your body. Heat stress and heat exhaustion are serious, so it is vital that you take precautions to protect yourself.

Water is an essential nutrient for all living things, making up 70 percent of planet Earth and 60 percent of our bodies. It keeps us functioning at optimal performance levels by regulating our core body temperature, carrying essential nutrients to vital organs, and flushing internal toxins. We simply cannot survive without it.

Whether walking to your car or performing a strenuous task at a job site, your body is always working to maintain a balance and sustain its core temperature. And because our bodies are constantly exposed to elements that increase body heat and deplete hydration levels, we must be extra careful when working in extremely hot or cold conditions. Extreme temperatures take a toll on the body, making workers more susceptible to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include:

• Thirst
• Fatigue
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea, dizziness, or confusion
• Excessive perspiration
• Hot, dry skin

Dehydration is associated with serious risks, including heat-related illnesses. The HRI spectrum can range from heat stress to heat stroke. So, how much hydration is enough?

As a general guideline, the recommended amount of water intake for the average adult is one quart per hour of active work or exercise. That is the equivalent of 128 ounces every four hours at minimum. It is also suggested that the water intake be distributed over time, such as every 15 minutes per shift.

However, every worker is different. The exact amount of hydration intake depends on the individual. It is important to consider the following factors:

• Do any underlying health conditions exist? Individuals and those who suffer from conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease have different hydration requirements. Taking medications can also alter the body’s tolerance to environmental factors.
• What is the level of physical exertion? As the body performs a task, even a basic one like breathing, it loses hydration.
• What type of environment is the work being performed in? HRIs are not exclusive to outdoors, as some may think. Many indoor workers are exposed to extreme heat, leaving them susceptible to dehydration and heat stress.
• Is the temperature hot? Is there radiant heat coming from machinery and other power sources? If the answer to either of these is yes, then it is very likely that any workers nearby are managing the heat by sweating – and therefore losing moisture. These individuals will need more fluid replacement.
• Is the environment new to the individual? The human body can adapt to its environment, but time and acclimatization are required in hot and cold environments.

It is important to make sure we are:

• Getting the fluids we need (drink water, with only 1 or 2 Gatorades/Sqwincher throughout the day)
• Taking breaks as needed to stay cool
• Watching out for our coworkers
• Avoiding pop, coffee, and other drinks with heavy sugar and caffeine
• Wearing sunscreen when in sunlight
• Hydrating the night before

Watch for symptoms of heat stress, like:

• Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Weakness in the body
• Nausea

What to do if an employee gets overheated:

• Move them to a cool, shaded area
• Loosen or remove heavy clothing
• Provide cool water to drink (not ice cold, as this could do harm to the employee)
• Fan and mist the person with water
• Call safety and your manager

Please be careful and watch over your coworkers.

“For safety is not a gadget but a state of mind.” – Eleanor Everet

As we move into 2023 and the construction season is about to ramp up, we need to refresh our minds with Roadway Safety. 

Working on or near roadways and highways can be dangerous. We have live traffic, construction traffic, crews, weather, and other hazards. Protecting ourselves and knowing what the hazards are can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Together, we can make sure everyone goes home safe.

As part of field work, we perform many different tasks on roadways which may include:

• Site/topo surveying
• Field measuring
• Photographing
• Manhole detailing
• Material testing
• Inspections (EC, TTC, R/W and survey, etc.)

We need to take a minute, and look over our work site. Ask yourself some questions what is going on today, what crews are in the area, what are the hazards today. With these questions it will get you in the safety state of mind.

The following methods can be used to minimize and control risks for optimum roadway safety:

Be aware of your surroundings:

1. Working near traffic for extended periods of time can cause you to become complacent to the danger around you from moving traffic
2. Continually remind yourself and your fellow workers of the dangers to which we are exposed
3. Remember the common phrase “If you cannot see the driver the driver cannot see you”
4. Stay out of heavy construction traffic areas where trucks and equipment are moving
5. Look when you hear a backup horn
6. Take a look around, use the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20-min. look 20 ft. around you for 20 sec

Remain Alert:

1. Do not allow yourself or a fellow worker to become distracted
2. If you need to walk near traffic always have the oncoming traffic facing you, do not walk with your back to the traffic
3. Do not attempt to talk on the phone when you are working near or around traffic, remove yourself to a safe place away from all traffic if you need to talk on the phone
4. Know where to cross and park. Routes should be identified and marked to allow workers and work vehicles to safely enter and exit the work space
5. Move in a predictable manner
6. Don’t take unnecessary risks

Be visible:

1.  All workers should wear high visibility, reflective apparel, in accordance with minimum roadway safety standards. (Class 3 vest on all roadway work)
2. Worker visibility during dawn or dusk conditions may be enhanced using fluorescent colored high visibility apparel
3. If possible, try to exit your vehicle on the curb side rather than traffic side
4. Notify your supervisor of safety concerns
5. Make eye contact with operators or truck drivers
6. Get the operators approval before crossing or approaching trucks or equipment
7. Park in an area where you are not in a pinch point

In summation, when we are on our job site, continue to keep a look out for traffic, construction crews, and new hazards. Take your time and be alert at all times. Remember the 20-20-20 rule. As always, if we see something say something to ensure roadway safety. We all have the power to use our Stop Work right. Look out for each other and keep our safety minds working.

Remember as we make our way around traveling back and forth to the office, slowdown in the constructions zones, and always drive safe.

“With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” – Eleanor Roosevelt