Working in any industrial facility comes with certain risks. However, the dangers and risks in these working environments are known to magnify as temperatures and humidity levels rise. That is why your business must implement a summer facility safety plan. Doing so is the best way to protect your employees and keep daily operations running smoothly.
The Importance of a Summer Facility Safety Plan
Preparing your facility and employees for the dangers of a warmer work environment is essential as summer draws near. Failing to do so can have catastrophic and potentially fatal results.
All employees are susceptible to the dangers of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. However, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has repeatedly warned that employees in their first week on the job are at heightened risks of heat-related death.
Early planning and preparedness procedures cannot be neglected or forgotten. Your safety plan should be a multifaceted approach. Below, we’ve gone over some proven tips for helping your employees beat the heat while safely carrying out their daily responsibilities.
How to Keep Your Cool In a Hot Facility
Unfortunately, work has to get done all year round, even when it’s hot and humid. To keep your employees safe and somewhat comfortable, you should consider implementing some of these strategies:
Maintaining a Cool Warehouse
One of the most important things you can do to protect your employees from soaring temperatures is to keep your warehouse cool. In order to do so, you will need to upgrade your insulation. Not only will this keep cool air in during the summer, but it will keep chilly air out during the winter.
After the insulation is taken care of, you should install or upgrade your AC system. We understand that commercial HVAC systems are a major investment. With that said, you could also rent one for the warm summer months and return it when temperatures begin to drop. This will allow you to keep your employees cool without going over budget.
Related: Is Your HVAC Ready for the Summer Heat?
Installing Dehumidifiers
A high humidity level will affect the heat index. In addition, it can increase employee perspiration rates, which means they will dehydrate more rapidly. Installing commercial dehumidifiers can draw excess moisture out of the air and make it feel much more comfortable. It will also serve to reduce perspiration rates and help your employees avoid dehydration. Remember, you can rent this type of equipment, as well.
Keeping Entries and Exits Closed
Encourage your employees to keep all entry and exit doors closed if they’re not in use. It is especially important that you shut any large roll-up doors in the time between deliveries and loading periods. Much of your effort to create a cool environment will be undone by leaving a few large doors open.
Upgrading Your Roof
The roof of your facility will have a major impact on internal temperatures. If your roof is a bit dated, consider replacing it with a more modern structure. A reflective, light-colored roof will work best if your goal is to keep internal temperatures low. While it can be a bit pricey, a new roof will save you thousands in cooling costs.
Installing Fans
Commercial-grade ceiling fans are a great way to improve air flow and reduce internal temperatures. Not only that, but fans are very affordable and have a relatively low maintenance cost. However, the benefits of ceiling fans will be reduced or nullified if you have an extremely high ceiling in your warehouse.
Tate’s Summer Facility Safety Solutions
If you are ready to implement these summer safety solutions, Tate is the team for the job. We offer comprehensive HVAC services, including installations, maintenance, and even rentals. Contact us today to ensure your employees have a cool and comfortable working environment this summer.
