Working in the hot sun

If you haven’t noticed, there is a strange ball of fire hovering in the sky right now.

The late spring hot weather is well and truly upon us and while it is great to finally embrace the warmer temperatures, safety should always be taken seriously.  At HF, it is one of our core values in the company and is always a priority.  Individually and collectively, we are all responsible.

And that is why we ensure that our team of electricians, mechanical engineers, fire & security contractors, comms riggers and control panel installers are all reminded of the potential dangers of working in the sun.

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK and too much exposure to UV radiation can cause sunburn, blistering, skin ageing and, in the long term, a higher risk of skin cancer.  Those with a family history of skin cancer may be more at risk.

So to ensure that everyone take appropriate precautions, we want to make sure that you are aware of the risks and know what to do to keep safe and be harm free.

Advice for working outdoors in the sun.

• Wear appropriate clothing.
• Stay in the shade where possible.
• Use a high factor sunscreen.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Watch for symptoms of skin damage such as new moles or spots and changes to existing moles.

Keep an eye out for the warning signs of dehydration.

• Dry mouth
• Muscle Cramps
• Nausea & Vomiting
• Heart palpitations
• Light headedness
• Eyes stop making tears
• Sweating stops
• Body weakness

If you feel the onset of these symptoms, drink cool water. Fresh fruit and vegetables are an ideal hydrating snack made up of 80-90% water.

Be safe, enjoy the weather (because in the UK, it probably won’t last that long) but above all, be safe.