Outdoor workers are a vital part of some businesses. It is important for them to take precautions against exposure to sun, heat, and bug bites during the summer months.
Sun
- To protect against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, do the following:
- Wear lightweight, tightly woven clothing that you can’t see through.
- Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 blocks 93 percent of UV rays.
- Wear a hat that protects your neck, ears, forehead, nose, and scalp.
- Wear UV-absorbent sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation.
Heat
Heat can be a serious health threat during the summer months. Protect yourself in the following ways:
- Drink plenty of water before you get thirsty.
- Wear light, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as dry-fit material.
- Eat small meals before work activity.
- Skip the caffeine and soda; drink water instead.
Ticks
If you’re working in tall grass or wooded areas, take the following precautions to protect yourself from ticks:
- Wear light-colored clothing to see ticks more easily.
- Wear long sleeves and long pants.
- Tuck pant legs into socks or boots.
- Wear high boots or closed shoes that cover your feet completely.
- Wear a hat.
- Use tick repellants, but not on your face.
- Wash and dry your work clothes at high temperatures.
- Examine your body for ticks after work, and remove any attached ticks promptly with a tweezers. If you get bit and develop a rash, see your doctor.
Insect Bites and Stings
Bee, wasp, hornet and yellow jacket stings are typically only dangerous to those who are allergic or have been stung multiple times.
- Wear bug repellant.
- Avoid wearing heavy perfumes or scented lotions.
- Check before drinking from cups, bottles or cans. Stinging insects are attracted to sweet drinks.
This information is intended for informational use only. © 2022 Zywave, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
