While it’s cold in a lot of places, it’s still hot in areas of the country, which increases the pressure in your pipes and on your plumbing employees. Plumbing work can be strenuous enough, but adding intense heat into the mix only heightens that strain. Caring for your team when the temperatures peak is not just good ethics, it is good business. Healthy, happy employees perform better, stay longer with you, and project positive associations when representing your brand. In this blog, we will look at how to keep your crew cool, safe, and productive during extreme heat waves.
Hydration is King (and Queen)
Heat can quickly sap energy and hydration levels from your employees, so ensure your team has access to plenty of water throughout their day. Stock coolers in your company trucks with bottled water or encourage reusable bottles by providing quality ones with your company logo. Electrolyte packs may even come in handy. Coffee and energy drinks may help in the morning but make sure employees know to drink extra fluid if they indulge them.
Gear Up for the Heat
Equipping your plumbers with appropriate gear can make an enormous difference on a hot workday. Lightweight, moisture-wicking uniforms not only keep them cooler but also protect against heat-related rashes. Outdoor jobs may call for wide-brimmed hats as well as breathable gloves to protect their hands without overheating them. As an extra measure you could even equip them with cooling towels or vests. Every small touch counts towards making their life easier on long workdays.
Purchase Portable Industrial Fans
Portable industrial fans are an indispensable weapon against extreme summer heat, providing constant airflow that helps regulate their body temperatures and prevent heat exhaustion in confined or stuffy workspaces. Position them strategically where plumbers are working for optimal ventilation. Durable high-quality fans provide more airflow for increased productivity and safer working environments. Investing in durable high-quality portable fans is an easy and cost-effective way to prioritize your team welfare. Click the link for portable industrial fans for sale and select one best suited to your business.
Flexible Scheduling for Peak Comfort
The peak heat period typically occurs from 12:00 to 16:00, so plan smarter not harder. Where possible, schedule any demanding tasks for early morning or late afternoon when heat levels are less extreme. Also allow frequent breaks for your team members during these peak heat times so as to protect your workforce against heat stroke risk and ensure their best work gets done at optimal performance levels. Adapt your schedule as necessary according to both job and person needs for maximum comfort.
Knowledge Is Power
Knowledge is power when it comes to fighting heat-related illnesses, including exhaustion and heat stroke. Train your team members on how to recognize symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, confusion and increased sweating associated with heat exhaustion or heat stroke. CPR and first aid training can help if an emergency situation arises, they know exactly what steps to take if something goes south. Creating an atmosphere of awareness shows your employees that their well-being is of top priority.
Conclusion
Protecting your plumbing employees during the heat of summer doesn’t just involve doling out water bottles and hoping for the best. It requires taking proactive measures and thoughtful planning. Heat can be brutal, but it doesn’t have to be detrimental to productivity or morale. With support, flexible schedules and appropriate equipment on hand, your crew will have less reason than ever to sweat the small stuff (or the big). Healthy employees lead to happy customers, keep cool so that both employees and business can flourish.
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