With summers getting hotter and hotter, outdoor workers in construction and logistics are on the front line when it comes to heat waves. This is a reality that can no longer be ignored. However, few people really know what the law says, what the real risks are, or how to protect themselves effectively. So what should you do when the temperature rises? Here is a comprehensive, practical guide to understanding the right steps to take during hot weather... without sacrificing your health or productivity.
What does the law say about heat at work?
When it's hot, it's up to the employer to take action. Workplace heat regulations require employers to protect their employees, especially in high-risk sectors such as construction and manufacturing. This isn't just a matter of installing a fan or handing out a few bottles of water. Legally, companies must implement concrete measures: monitor the temperature, adjust work schedules, provide regular breaks, and ensure that everyone has access to fresh water.
In the event of a heatwave at work, these measures become a priority: staggered working hours, more breaks, suitable clothing, etc. All of this helps to prevent serious risks such as heatstroke or exhaustion.
Heat risks: more serious than you think
Heat is not just a matter of discomfort. Working in an overheated environment directly endangers the health and sometimes the lives of workers.
- Heatstroke: This is an absolute emergency. When the body can no longer cool itself down, it overheats. The result: headaches, nausea, loss of consciousness. Rapid medical attention is essential.
- Heat exhaustion: Less severe, but just as worrying. It's a sign that the body is on the verge of collapse. Fatigue, dizziness, cold sweats... you need to react quickly to prevent the situation from getting worse.
And that's not all. On a construction site, heat also increases the risk of accidents: imprecise movements, loss of concentration, careless mistakes. In physical jobs, this can be very costly.
Practical tips for protecting yourself from the heat in the field
So how can you keep a cool head when everything around you is overheating? Here are some good habits to adopt every day to cope better with the heat and stay efficient, even in the height of summer.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Say goodbye to heavy fabrics! Opt for lightweight, breathable, UV-protective clothing, such as a G-Heat cooling T-shirt. These help regulate body temperature and protect the skin from harmful rays. Tip: choose light colors, which reflect light.
- Stay hydrated at all times: Water is your number one ally. Drink regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Keep a water bottle with you and take a few sips every 20 to 30 minutes. Prevention is better than cure.
- Take regular breaks: Your body needs a break. Plan breaks in the shade or in a cool place every 45 to 60 minutes. This is essential to avoid overheating and stay alert.
- Use cooling accessories: They can make a real difference. G-Heat accessories activate in the blink of an eye (just wet them) and offer a long-lasting cooling effect. Discreet, practical, and effective.
- Adjust your work schedule: Whenever possible, avoid the hottest hours of the day (between noon and 4 p.m.). Try to work earlier in the morning or after 5 p.m. Less sun means less risk.
By combining these simple steps, you can significantly reduce heat stress and work in better conditions without putting your health at risk.
Clothing designed for those who don't have the luxury of air conditioning
Cooling clothing designed for professionals
At G-Heat, we develop thermoregulatory solutions for those who have no choice but to work outdoors, even when it's 104°F. Our cooling clothing—T-shirts, vests, etc.—features advanced technologies such as POLYCOOL, JADECOOL, and PHASECOOL. The principle: absorb moisture, transform it into coolness, and keep the body at a stable temperature.
Useful, discreet, and effective accessories
In addition, our cooling accessories such as caps and neck gaiters offer real added value. They prolong the cooling effect, reduce discomfort and enhance your protection without restricting movement. Slip them into your bag or wear them all day long.
In short
Working in hot weather doesn't have to be a nightmare. With the right equipment and a proper prevention strategy, you can beat the heat without compromising your health. And if you want to kit yourself out intelligently, take a look at our selection of cooling clothing and accessories designed for the field and tested by professionals.
