If the answer seems obvious to you, it may be because you're already taking all the necessary steps to stay cool and dry and avoid dehydration.
Otherwise, be aware that there are mainly 3 elements to respect when you work in an environment where the heat can become extreme.
- Keep yourself hydrated, even when you don't feel thirsty;
- Take regular breaks in a cool environment away from the sun or other sources of extreme heat;
- And wear the right clothes!
What type of clothing should I wear to stay cool and dry?
It is possible to dress from head to toe to stay cool and dry (for a certain time) in order to combat the increase in body temperature.
However, bring a change of clothes, because sooner or later, depending on your work environment, perspiration will take over.
Breathable shoes and boots
Some fabrics are more breathable than others, even for shoes or the work boots . However, to keep your feet cool and dry, you should add socks made of sweat-wicking materials. Consider bamboo and wool.
Please note
Make sure to dry your work boots or shoes every night. One of the best tricks is to crumple up some newspaper and place it inside overnight to absorb excess water.
Work clothes: sweaters and pants
Preferably, for sweaters and pants, make sure they are loose rather than fitted, in light colors and made of a lightweight fabric. Avoid jeans at all costs!
The main fibers recommended for work clothes are:
- Microfiber, polyamide, elastane and modal: comfortable and wick away perspiration;
- Cotton and bamboo: absorb moisture and are very comfortable, but should be combined with other fabrics to keep sweat away from you;
- Spandex, nylon and polyester: dry quickly.
The Husky Shop offers canvas clothing Durable and breathable Gridflex or composed of different fast moisture-wicking fibers for optimal comfort at work.
Please note!
Although we tend to shorten our sleeves and replace our trousers with shorts when it's hot, it's more effective, especially in the sun, to maintain maximum protection with clothing that covers us from head to toe.
Occupations at risk of heat stroke
If you are an employer, you have a responsibility to provide a safe working environment and conditions at all times. This includes taking steps in extreme heat.
Some environments are more at risk than others. Among other things, they require working outdoors or in an unair-conditioned environment, while continuously exerting physical strain. For example:
- Construction trades;
- Warehouse work;
- Factory occupations involving the operation of equipment that generates high heat;
- The movers;
- The health sector for certain professions requiring more physical work;
- Etc.
Therefore, be sure to adjust the conditions appropriately by respecting the standards established by Health Canada and the Government of Quebec .
Furthermore, if you are an employee, you have the right to demand that your workplace comply with this legislation, especially since as soon as the thermometer reaches 400C, any prolonged physical effort becomes dangerous.
You can check the weather (heat, no wind, several consecutive days of heat) and discuss with your employer so that simple measures can be applied:
- Availability of sufficient water at the workplace;
- Reorganization of tasks so that those requiring more effort are postponed or carried out with alternating personnel;
- Increased breaks, with a cool place, preferably in an air-conditioned place;
- Raising awareness among colleagues about increased vigilance to keep an eye out for symptoms of overheating (headaches, nausea, sudden fatigue, dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness).
This information represents basic prevention and not medical advice. Be sure to consult your health and safety representative to learn more about symptoms to watch for.
Do you have any questions? Representatives of Husky can help you to choose the work clothes best suited to the heat in your workplace.
