Water, rest, and shade are vital methods to keep workers safe from the sun and heat. As record temps continue to rise, it is important to stay cool and hydrated while working outdoors. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) recommends drinking one cup of cool water every 20 minutes to stay hydrated on short jobs. For longer jobs, a beverage containing electrolytes is also beneficial.
While limiting exposure to the sun is ideal, it is not always possible for jobsites in open areas. Covering up with tightly-woven clothing, wearing a hat, and planning times of rest in shade or cool areas are necessary to work safely in the sun. Safety glasses that double as UV-absorbent shades will not only protect eyes from the elements of a jobsite but also shield from harmful UV rays. Of obvious importance, sunscreen also can aid in protection, and newer cooling formulas are a bonus to keep employees cool and sunburn-free.
To address the continued concern of heat-related illness, OSHA has begun a possible rulemaking for Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings. In the meantime, here are six products for added heat-control and hydration.
1. Chill Pal Mesh Cooling Towel
A multipurpose cooling towel can be used in a variety of ways to cool workers in the heat. Whether draped around the neck while working or on top of the head during rest breaks, cooling towels can drastically lower heated body temperatures, says the manufacturer. With just water, the cooling properties are activated while built-in evaporative technology keeps the towel colder longer.
2. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
When water simply isn’t enough, Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier is an efficient way to quickly hydrate employees. Mixed with 16 ounces of water, the non-GMO electrolyte drink, powered by Cellular Transport Technology (CTT), enhances rapid absorption of water into the bloodstream. The mix comes in single-serving packets that are easily stowed in toolboxes and truck compartments for quick access.
3. StaCool Under Vest
StaCool Under Vest’s engineered body cooling system offers hours of cooling without compromising mobility. Each vest has four pockets, two in the front and two in the back, for the ThermoPak sets to be inserted. Made of breathable airprene and spandex, the vest is lightweight, weighing 5 to 5.5 pounds with the ThermoPaks hydrated.
4. Bob's Pickle Potion #9
A popular form of hydration and cramp-prevention for athletes, pickle juice is packed with electrolytes from sodium benzoate. According to the manufacturer, Bob's Pickle Potion #9, made in Texas, can restore electrolyte balance often lost during heavy work or activity in the heat. To cool down and hydrate at the same time, the drink can be frozen to create pickle pops.
5. Halo Headband Solar Sun-Protective Skull Cap & Tail
Easily worn under hard hats and helmets, the Halo Headband Solar Sun-Protective Skull Cap & Tail covers the head, neck and ears while stopping sweat from reaching the eyes, face, and glasses. The lightweight tail, made of a double layer of mesh, provides 50+ UPF protection. With grip technology, the headband stays in place under headwear.
6. Dr. Scholl's UltraCool Insoles
Work boots and protective shoes can add an enormous amount of heat to workers’ body temperatures. Cooling insoles are a smart way to battle the warmth and add a layer of comfort. Dr. Scholl’s UltraCool Insoles are designed with Aircool Vents in a honeycomb pattern with moisture-wicking cloth on top to promote airflow.
