Heat Illness Prevention

Texas heat is a genuine killer on construction sites. The heat index: how hot it actually feels: can reach dangerous levels before 10 a.m. in July. Heat stroke, the most severe form, can kill within minutes if not treated immediately. New workers and anyone returning from time off are especially vulnerable during their first 7–14 days back on the job.

1. Water, rest, shade: the OSHA foundation. Drink at least 1 cup of water every 15–20 minutes, even when you're not thirsty.
2. New workers must acclimatize: start at 20% of normal workload on day one and increase by 20% each day for 7–14 days.
3. Heat exhaustion signs: heavy sweating, weakness, cold/pale/clammy skin, nausea, dizziness: rest in shade and hydrate immediately.
4. Heat stroke is a medical emergency: hot/red/dry skin, confusion, fast pulse, loss of consciousness: call 911 and cool the worker down now.
5. Buddy system: check on your crew frequently. A worker with heat illness may not realize how impaired they are.
6. OSHA's Heat Illness Prevention standard activates at 80°F: know this site's heat action plan and who is monitoring the heat index today.
7. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks during hot shifts. Electrolyte drinks help during extended outdoor work.