When working outside in the summer, protecting your skin from the sun is important when working outside in the summer, especially when doing construction jobs. Sunburns and other skin conditions can lead to skin cancer and other health problems. A sunburn is a form of damage to the skin caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. That’s why you must follow these tips to stay safe while working outside this summer:
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and Anti-UV sunglasses
A wide-brimmed hat protects your face, neck, ears, and scalp from the sun’s damaging rays. However, it should be removed when you are indoors or under shade as it blocks the body’s natural cooling system. Also, go for a pair of sunglasses with 100 percent UV protection in both UVA (long wave) and UVB (short wave) categories.
Wear Protective Clothing
Protect your skin from the sun with protective clothing, like long sleeves and pants. Also, ensure your clothes cover your entire body—long sleeves, long pants, and socks will help protect you from harmful UV rays that may enter through any exposed skin on your arms or legs. If you do construction jobs with a large firm like Kilgore Companies, you will be issued lightly colored, loose clothing ideal for working outside in the summer.
Avoid the sun when it’s at its strongest
To keep your body cool and prevent sunburn, you should avoid the sun’s rays between 10 am and 4 pm. You can also take breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioned environment.
Drink Plenty of Water to Rehydrate
The essential thing to do to stay safe in a hot environment is to stay hydrated. In the summer months, it’s especially important to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol as much as possible. Drink at least 2 gallons of water per day, depending on how active you are and how warm it is outside. If you’re exercising or working outside in high heat, drink more than the recommended number of glasses per day! Drink enough water until your urine looks light yellow or completely clear. If your urine is dark yellow or brownish, dehydration has occurred within your body.
Conclusion
As you can see, protecting yourself from the sun when engaging in construction jobs is important. While it may seem minor, the most important part of staying safe working outside in summer is to beware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself. Remember that if you’re feeling overheated or dehydrated, it’s best not to push yourself too hard but rather take some time out of the sun’s rays. Sit down under a tree or take shelter inside somewhere cool before resuming work again later on when temperatures are more bearable.