Surviving the Summer: Tips for Work Site Employees

In Australia, summer is not to be trifled with, especially our dreaded heat waves, defined as when we have above average temperatures for three days in a row. Our temperatures regularly soar to above forty degrees Celsius, sadly resulting in preventable deaths from conditions like heat stroke.

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition where the body can no longer regulate temperature. Perspiration stops and the body is no longer able to cool itself down without help from others. During heat stroke the core body temperature rises to forty degrees Celsius or higher and this results in confusion, slurred speech, seizures, unconsciousness, coma, and even death.

If someone is experiencing heat stroke is it vital to call Triple Zero (000) immediately and follow the directions from ambulance staff including (typically) moving the affected person to a cool place, removing unnecessary clothing and applying wet cloths. You can read more about heat stroke here.

However, in terms of reducing the risk of heat stroke and UV exposure in manageable heat, there are a few things you can do that are effective, which we will now list.

It may sound obvious, but when the temperatures rise you really need to regularly drink cool water and other hydrating liquids. Cool water and drinks like cold tea help regulate your core body temperature and prevent dehydration. However, if you’re overheated or working in extremely hot conditions it is important to drink cool but not ice-cold water. This is because if you’re overheated and you suddenly drink ice-cold water you can send your body into shock.

On a busy work site it’s possible to get overheated even on mild days, but thankfully you can cool yourself down easily and cheaply by applying cold water or ice to your pulse points such as your neck and wrists. These are places where your veins are close to the skin’s surface, which makes it easy to quickly cool down the temperature of your blood. While ice or a cold drink pressed against the wrist or neck is certainly effective, you can get long-lasting relief by using one of our cooling ties. Just submerge your tie in water for 5 to 10 minutes before tying it around your neck, head or wrist to immediately feel the cooling effect, which can last for a few hours before your tie needs to be re-soaked.

This one is a no brainer but it’s worth repeating: in summer you really need light, breathable clothing that wicks away sweat and keeps you cool. At Badger we have a huge range of light, breathable mesh workwear that is purpose-made made for tough Australian conditions.

Pharmacies and supermarkets don’t always stock heavy-duty 50+ SPF sunscreen, which is why we at Badger stock Pro Bloc SPF lip balm and sunscreen. Next time you’re shopping for a new work shirt or two add a few of their products to your cart before check out. Pro Bloc filters up to 98% of UV rays, provides broad spectrum UV and UVB protection, is four hours water resistant and free from nanoparticles.

Finally, no matter how much sunscreen you use some of it is always going to rub off as you perspire in the sun, but especially on your face. Considering how common it is to get skin cancer on your nose, forehead and neck area, it’s a good idea to wear a good quality wide brimmed hat, like this one, which also has hi vis bands, to reduce your exposure to the sun.