By Mark Smith 13/05/2025

Under: Health and Safety News

Keeping Your Construction Workers Safe and Cool in Hot Weather

With the UK heating up year on year, it’s more important than ever for employers to consider the impact of hot weather on construction workers. Whether you're managing a small crew or a large-scale site, preparing for high temperatures can significantly reduce health risks and ensure your team remains safe, comfortable, and productive. 

Why Hot Weather Safety in Construction Matters 

While many associate sunshine with holidays and relaxation, the reality for outdoor workers is far from idyllic. Long hours under direct sunlight and exposure to extreme heat can quickly lead to dangerous working conditions. Employers have both a moral and legal responsibility to protect workers from heat-related illnesses and injuries. 

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers must do whatever is “reasonably practicable” to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. This duty was extended in April 2022 under the Personal Protective Equipment (Amendment) Regulations, which now include providing PPE to workers with more casual or contract-based employment. 

Heat can impair judgment, reduce concentration, and increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls due to sweaty hands, fatigue, or dizziness. With climate change driving higher temperatures and an ageing workforce increasing vulnerability, it’s time to act.

Sun Awareness Week 2025: Why It Matters for Outdoor Workers

Sun Awareness Week 2025 will take place between 12^th and 18^th May. Organised by the British Association of Dermatologists, this nationwide initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of overexposure to the sun and the significance of protecting our skin.

For construction workers who are often outdoors for extended periods, this campaign is an essential reminder of the health hazards associated with UV exposure, such as sunburn, heatstroke, and skin cancer. Employers should take this chance to strengthen sun safety measures on-site, ensuring that their teams are equipped with UV-resistant personal protective equipment (PPE), sunscreen, and shaded areas for breaks.

Preventing Heat-Related Illness on Construction Sites

Creating a clear hot weather safety plan can protect your workforce and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. Here's what to include:

• Adjust work hours to avoid peak sun exposure (11am–3pm between March and October in the UK).
• Provide shaded or covered rest areas for frequent cooling breaks.
• Ensure free access to cool drinking water and encourage workers to hydrate every 15–20 minutes.
• Distribute appropriate PPE such as wide-brimmed hats, UV-rated sunglasses, and breathable, long-sleeved workwear.
• Apply and reapply SPF 30+ sun cream regularly, especially on exposed skin.
• Monitor for insect stings and bites - ensure EpiPens are available for those with known allergies.
• Install accessible toilet facilities to reduce reluctance to stay hydrated.
• Increase team size where possible to reduce each individual’s heat exposure.

Recognising Heat-Related Illness Symptoms

Educating your team about the symptoms of heat-related conditions can be life-saving. Look out for:

1. Heatstroke

A potentially fatal condition. Signs include dry skin, confusion, high body temperature, seizures, or unconsciousness. Act fast: call emergency services, move the worker to shade, and apply cold water to the chest, armpits, and groin.

2. Heat Exhaustion

Caused by dehydration and electrolyte loss. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache, and rapid pulse. Move the person to a shaded area, offer cold water, and loosen clothing. If symptoms persist for more than 15 minutes, seek medical attention.

3. Heat Cramps

Muscle cramps can be caused by heavy sweating. Move the worker out of the sun and provide electrolyte-rich fluids. If the individual has heart problems or symptoms that last more than an hour, medical help may be necessary.

4. Skin Cancer Risks

Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK and causes over 2,500 deaths annually. Yet, 86% of cases are preventable (Cancer Research UK). Employers must provide sun protection such as sun cream, UV-blocking PPE, and training on the importance of skin safety, including how and when to apply sun cream.

Hot Weather Workwear for Construction Teams

Proper PPE is essential during the summer months. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of workwear that is designed to be breathable, UV-protective, and durable for harsh site conditions.

One of our bestsellers is the Hi-Vis Polo Shirt, ideal for visibility and ventilation in high-heat environments due to its wicking capabilities. Don’t forget eye protection - our Uvex Pheos Safety Spectacles provide both comfort and full UV protection.

Protecting Skin with Onsite Sun Protection

To make skin protection effortless, we’ve introduced the Enfield Safety Sunscreen Station - an easy-access solution for regular sun cream application throughout the day. We also offer bulk sun cream supplies and individual SPF 30 bottles perfect for personal toolkits or van storage.

Stay Hydrated, Stay Safe

The number one cause of heat exhaustion is dehydration. Encourage workers to drink water regularly, ideally one cup every 15–20 minutes. Avoid caffeinated drinks and provide cool water stations in convenient locations across your site. We also supply bottled spring water in 500ml sizes for personal hydration.

Keep Your Team Cool, Safe, and Productive

Hot weather doesn’t have to slow down your site. With the right planning, PPE, hydration, and awareness, you can keep your workforce protected and performing at their best.