Exercise Extra Caution In Extreme Temps

Marco works with roofers all over the country … enough to know they are savvy about a lot of things. But one thing that might slip by a seasoned professional is the heat. Sure, roofers understand heat, but this year, even normally temperate regions are baking under the summer sun. Oregon recently reported 115-degree temperatures in Portland … and 100 heat-related deaths across the state. Even if you don’t work in Oregon, this should be a reminder to pay extra attention to yourself and your workers during these hot summer months.

The problem is two-fold. Roofers are used to the heat, so they often don’t recognize the symptoms of heat illness when they are experiencing them. Plus, the summer months provide more sunlight (which heats things up), but it also allows for longer workdays, which can increase the risks of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.

OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention campaign boils it down to this: “Water, rest, shade.” Pretty simple, but very effective. OSHA recommends the following:

• Provide workers with water, rest and shade.
• Allow new or returning workers to gradually increase workloads and take more frequent breaks as they acclimatize or build a tolerance for working in the heat.
• Plan for emergencies and train workers on prevention.
• Monitor workers for signs of illness.

Whether you have a crew of 20 or two, you should approach heat safety the same way: seriously. In fact, if you are working alone or away from others, it’s especially important to take precautions. 

It’s hot up there on the roof. Consider getting a pop-up tent to use a cooling station. Keep electrolyte packs and popsicles around to help with hydration. Anything you can do to keep hydrated and cool will help keep you safe!

To learn more about Marco, visit www.MarcoIndustries.com. To contact Marco directly, you can email them here or call 1-800-800-8590.