Summer may be prime time for construction projects, but the soaring temperatures are no joke. Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to fatigue, dehydration, heat stroke and even long-term health complications. If you're a construction worker or a business owner managing a crew, it’s crucial to have a game plan for keeping workers safe and productive when the sun’s relentless. Here's how to beat the heat with five practical, actionable strategies—no fluff, just what works.
1. Schedule Smart: Optimize Work Hours to Avoid Peak Heat
Why it matters: The hottest part of the day typically falls between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Working through that window raises the risk of heat-related illnesses significantly.
What to do:
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Shift start times earlier in the morning so more labor is completed during cooler hours.
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Use late afternoons for lighter tasks or indoor work if available.
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Split shifts may work well for large crews, allowing everyone to rotate and recover.
Bonus tip: Encourage teams to monitor the local heat index—not just the temperature. Humidity can greatly amplify the risk.
2. Hydrate Constantly: Make Water Breaks Non-Negotiable
Why it matters: Dehydration sneaks up fast, especially when heavy labor and direct sun exposure are involved.
What to do:
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Provide clean, cold drinking water stations at multiple jobsite locations.
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Set hydration schedules—such as a drink every 20 minutes, even if not thirsty.
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Offer electrolyte drinks to replenish salt and minerals lost through sweat.
Pro tip: Skip caffeine and sugary sodas during work hours—they dehydrate more than they help.
3. Dress for the Job (and the Heat): Choose Breathable, Protective Gear
Why it matters: Not all gear is created equal. Overheating can be caused by inappropriate clothing, but protection from sunburn and injuries is still vital.
What to do:
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Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that allow sweat to evaporate.
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Use light-colored apparel to reflect the sun rather than absorb it.
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Ensure all crew members wear wide-brimmed hats or hard hats with sun shields.
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UV-protective sunglasses and sunscreen with SPF 30+ should be mandatory, not optional.
Safety first: PPE should never be compromised, but material upgrades can make a world of difference.
4. Create Cool Zones: Provide Shade and Cooling Break Areas
Why it matters: Without a reprieve from the sun, body temperatures stay elevated, increasing risk for heat exhaustion.
What to do:
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Set up shaded tents or canopies for designated rest breaks.
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Equip break zones with fans, misters or even portable A/C units for larger sites.
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Encourage workers to take regular, timed breaks in these areas to cool down properly.
Field-tested idea: Rotate cooling towels among workers for quick relief, especially after intense activity.
5. Train, Monitor and Communicate: Stay Ahead of Heat Stress
Why it matters: Recognizing symptoms early can prevent heat stroke or worse. A proactive safety culture is the best defense.
What to do:
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Conduct pre-season training on heat safety protocols and symptoms to watch out for.
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Assign supervisors to observe workers for signs like dizziness, headaches or confusion.
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Use wearable tech like temperature or hydration monitors if budget allows.
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Foster open communication so workers feel safe reporting discomfort or issues.
Remember: Prevention beats treatment every time.
Don't Let the Heat Slow You Down
For construction crews, summer isn't just a season—it's a serious safety challenge. Fortunately, with proper planning, hydration, gear and team culture, you can keep your workforce protected and productive.
Investing in heat safety isn't just good for morale; it’s good for business. Happy, healthy workers perform better, have fewer absences and make your jobsite a model of professionalism.
Share this article with your coworkers to spread awareness about the importance of keeping cool, and you can learn more way to beat the heat by checking out these articles next: Extreme Heat Awareness Month: What Construction Crews Need to Know, Staying Safe in the Heat: How Construction Crews Beat the Summer Heat and Heat Safety on the Job.
Photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM/TOM WANG
