As the cold weather fades and the summer heat starts kicking in, it’s a good time to think about switching up your PPE. If you work in construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, or any other physically demanding job, hot temperatures can add a whole new layer of risk.
Working in the heat isn’t just uncomfortable, it can be dangerous. Heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even heat stroke become real concerns.
Having the right summer PPE matters. If your gear is too heavy or makes you hotter, chances are you’ll want to take it off, defeating the purpose of wearing it in the first place.
What to Look for in Summer PPE
Here are some key things to keep in mind when choosing warm-weather safety gear:
- Breathable, moisture-wicking materials: Sweaty hands make gloves slippery and uncomfortable. Look for options made from light, breathable fabric that pulls moisture away from your skin. Something like the Skytec Aria 360 does just that and stays comfy even during long shifts.
- Low breathing resistance: Choose a respirator that’s built for better airflow, like the Skytec range, which has masks with a special exhalation valve to make breathing easier when it’s hot and humid.
- Anti-fog eyewear: If you’re moving between indoor and outdoor environments, fogged-up lenses can be a big safety issue. You don’t want to be squinting or tempted to take your glasses off. Riley lenses are anti-fog and anti-scratch, so you can keep them on all day without problems.
- UV protection for outdoor work: If you’re working outside, make sure your eyewear protects your eyes from harmful UV rays. Riley eyewear with TECTON 400 coating blocks out high-level UV light so your eyes stay safe.
Stay Safe, Stay Cool
Heat stress is preventable. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks, and most importantly wear the right PPE for the season.