Staying Safe on the Job Site: Heat Safety for Builders

Summers in South Carolina bring longer days and dangerously high temperatures. For those working outdoors, extreme heat is more than uncomfortable – it’s a safety risk. As temperatures climb, so does the risk of heat-related illness, especially for construction workers. 

Construction professionals make up just 6% of the U.S. workforce, but they account for more than one-third of all heat-related work fatalities. Between 2011 and 2022, 479 workers across the country lost their lives due to environmental heat exposure. And in just one year, from 2021 to 2022, nearly 5,000 workers had to take time off due to heat-related illness.

These numbers clearly remind us that heat is a real hazard in our industry. The best way to protect your team is through preparation. Use these practical heat safety practices to help you reduce risk, keep your team safe and maintain productivity throughout the hottest months of the year.

10 Heat Safety Practices Every Jobsite Should Follow

1. Ease into Outdoor Work

If a worker is new to the team or returning after time off, don’t dive in full speed. Follow OSHA’s 20% Rule: start with no more than 20% of the shift at full effort in the heat, and increase gradually over the week by no more than 20% a day.

2. Hydrate Regularly

Encourage workers to drink cool water every 15 to 20 minutes, before they feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, which can accelerate dehydration.

3. Plan for Breaks

Designate shaded or cool areas for recovery and include rest breaks in your daily schedule, especially during peak heat hours.

4. Dress to Stay Cool

Wear light-colored, breathable, loose-fitting clothing that helps the body regulate temperature. A wide-brimmed hat can offer added protection.

5. Circulate Air When Possible

Use portable fans or create ventilation when feasible to keep air moving and help sweat evaporate more effectively.

6. Work Around the Weather

Schedule heavy labor for early mornings or later afternoons when temperatures are lower. Use midday hours for lighter tasks.

7. Understand Personal Risk

Certain medical conditions, medications or personal fitness levels can increase susceptibility to heat stress. Make sure your team knows their limits.

8. Recognize Heat Illness Symptoms

Look for signs like dizziness, headaches, confusion, nausea and dry, hot skin. If a worker stops sweating or loses consciousness, call 911 and begin cooling them immediately.

9. Check on Each Other

Encourage teams to buddy up and keep open communication. A quick “you good?” can make all the difference.

10. Build Safety Into Every Day

Talk about heat safety during team meetings like morning huddles. Keep it top of mind and part of your company culture, not just when the temps spike.

A Safer Summer Starts with Us

SCHBSIF is committed to supporting the success and safety of our members through education, resources and hands-on support. Let’s work together to keep your teams safe, cool and ready to build all summer long.

Need safety resources or want to schedule a training? Contact your SCHBSIF safety team today.