Staying Safe While Working Outside in the Summer

When working outside during summer, there are many season-specific issues that can arise which you need to think about.

As temperatures rise and sun exposure increases, outside workers, facing the prospect of a big chunk of time working externally, will need to be wary so as not to suffer a number of health problems, including sunstroke, sunburn, or overheating among others.

How can outdoor workers stay safe while working in summer?

Staying hydrated

Dehydration can have a debilitating impact on an employee’s performance levels. While working outside in summer, this can become problematic, leaving those badly affected feeling dizzy, light-headed, tired and thirsty.

The solution to this is simple; providing regular water breaks and a supply of water for staff to drink will alleviate these problems, with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) calling for “free access to cool drinking water.”

Providing reminders to yourself – perhaps a phone alarm or even a post-it note somewhere eye-catching– if you know you will be working outdoors all day could be a useful thing. 

Overheating

In particularly warm weather, within a physically demanding job, overheating can become an issue. This can lead to heat rash, fainting or even heatstroke.

The HSE recommends the following advice for employers and employees:

• Reschedule work for cooler times of the day
• Provide more frequent rest breaks and introduce shading to rest areas
• Provide free access to cool drinking water
• Introduce shading in areas where individuals are working
• Encourage the removal of personal protective equipment when resting to encourage heat loss
• Educate workers about recognising the early symptoms of heat stress.

Sun burn

The effects of sun burn can be felt if someone is exposed to the sun for too long. It is important to either dress appropriately – long sleeved top to cover the arms and a cap to keep the sun off the face – and also apply sun cream regularly throughout the day.

That way your skin is protected and not as vulnerable to sun burn which, at its most extreme, can lead to skin cancer in the long run. 

What should your employer do?

The HSE has a range of useful advice for employers in relation to working in hot environments, including the points mentioned above.

If they fail to provide sufficient care and attention in this respect, then they may be liable should an accident or injury occur. 

How can Winn Solicitors help?

If you have suffered an injury because of a non-fault accident while at work, you may be eligible for a compensation claim. Ring our team to discuss the circumstances of your accident and they will quickly assess your chances of success.

We can arrange all elements of the claim, co-ordinate the legal requirements and arrange for medical treatment should it be required. Our team is experienced in such matters and will endeavour to get the best result for you, without the stress and hassle of conducting a claim yourself.

Contact us on our new 24-hour claim line or request a call-back for a time to suit you through the form on our website homepage. Alternatively, start a Live Chat on the website with a member of our team.

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