Understanding the Danger of Heat Stress in Construction
In the construction workplace, understanding and awareness of heat illness are not just important—they are essential for protecting the health and lives of our people. As temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with heat exposure. The dangers of ignoring these risks are starkly illustrated by statistics from the United States Environmental Protection Agency stating that from 1992 to 2022, a total of 986 workers across all industry sectors in the United States died from exposure to heat. This represents an average of 34 deaths per year, according to reported data. The agency states that in this period, there were 334 construction worker deaths due to heat exposure on the job—meaning that about 34% of all occupational heat-related deaths were tied to the construction sector.
These figures underscore the urgent need for a proactive approach to heat illness safety.
Recognizing Heat Illness and Its Symptoms
Heat stress arises when the body’s cooling mechanisms are overwhelmed, potentially leading to conditions such as heat exhaustion and, in extreme cases, heat stroke. Early symptoms include:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headaches
Eliminating or Reducing Heat Illness
At Gilbane, we prioritize the health and safety of our team members by implementing a comprehensive approach to prevent and mitigate heat illnesses. Guided by the hierarchy of controls, we develop site-specific plans designed to protect workers from the dangers of excessive heat.
Our number one priority is to eliminate heat illness altogether. Mitigation strategies to eliminate and reduce heat illness include adjusting work schedules to avoid outdoor work during the hottest parts of the day. Workers are also rotated to minimize their exposure to the sun for tasks that must be performed during peak heat.
Key Tactics to Stay Safe in the Heat
Implementing Heat Illness Prevention Training:
Education is a key component of our heat stress prevention strategy. All team members are trained to recognize the symptoms of heat illness, understand the importance of hydration, and know where to find first aid resources on-site. Workers are encouraged to watch out for each other, promoting a culture of safety and mutual care.
Providing Hydration Stations and Rest Areas:
Hydration is crucial in preventing heat-related illnesses. We place coolers filled with ice, water, and electrolytes near all work areas. These stations are easily accessible, ensuring that workers stay hydrated throughout the day. Rest areas are equipped with air-conditioning to provide a break from the heat.
Equipping Sites with First Aid Resources:
Gilbane project sites have AEDs, heat-illness first aid kits, and additional coolers to address heat-illness emergencies. These resources are strategically placed and can be reached within minutes from any location on the site.
Continuous Weather Monitoring:
We continuously monitor weather conditions, paying close attention to temperature and humidity levels that could increase the risk of heat stress. If conditions become concerning, team members are advised to take breaks, stay hydrated, and, if necessary, pause work until it is safe to continue.
Observing Pre-Task Plans:
We require all trades to complete a pre-task plan before beginning work. This process includes a thorough assessment of potential heat illness risks and ensures that appropriate precautions are in place. Observing and adhering to these plans are crucial to maintain a safe job site.
Taking It a Step Further: Innovative Heat Safety Solutions
In addition to these standard safety measures, Gilbane is exploring innovative technologies to further enhance worker safety in hot environments. One such innovation is the I-Bow Heat Stroke Prevention Wristband, a wearable device designed to monitor vital signs and environmental conditions in real-time.
I-Bow Heat Stroke Prevention Wristband:
This breathable, silicon mesh wristband functions like a smartwatch, continuously monitoring the wearer’s body and surrounding outdoor temperatures. When a team member’s body temperature rises to a level that indicates potential heat stress, the band issues an alert, prompting the worker to take a required break to cool down.
The I-Bow wristband has been successfully launched and tested in Japan, where it has shown promising results in preventing heat-related illnesses. Encouraged by its success, Gilbane is now rolling out the wristbands on construction projects in Mexico, where they continue to prove effective. The device’s week-long battery life and early warning capabilities make it a valuable tool in our heat safety arsenal.
A Commitment to Continuous Improvement
At Gilbane, we understand that traditional methods of preventing heat illness are crucial, but we also recognize the need for continuous improvement. By embracing innovative solutions like the I-Bow wristband, we take heat illness prevention to the next level, providing our teams with the tools they need to stay safe and healthy.
Our commitment to heat illness prevention is not just about compliance with OSHA standards, but about caring for our people. We are dedicated to protecting our workforce by implementing the best practices and technologies available, ensuring everyone goes home safely at the end of the day.
As we continue to explore and expand the use of these tools, we remain focused on our core mission: to keep our people safe by preventing heat stress and other workplace hazards. By staying ahead of the curve and adopting a mindset of continuous improvement, we set our teams up for success and demonstrate that at Gilbane, safety truly comes first.
