Working on scaffolding in summer - what to consider

The seasons of the year change each other, and the working conditions change. Builders who are constantly outdoors on scaffolding experience all the weather changes. In winter it is frost and snow, and in summer it is heat. What risks does a hot summer bring when working on scaffolding?

Heat

As summer days get hot, construction workers working on scaffolds risk heatstroke and sunburn if protective measures are not taken. Even though the construction industry employs tough men, they should also use cosmetics such as sunscreen. It should be applied to exposed skin to prevent burns. Also, do not neglect hats with brims and visors, but do not forget about the use of PPE (helmet). Be sure to drink a lot during the working day; for this purpose, always have a bottle of water at hand. During the hottest time of the day, it is better to take a lunch break. During the day you need to take regular breaks to go into the shade.

Air with allergens

The number of people suffering from allergies is growing every year. In summer, grasses, flowers and other plants bloom. Allergy sufferers feel high levels of pollen in the air, and their health may worsen. If scaffolding workers suffer from asthma, it is necessary to carry an inhaler with them to relieve an attack. You should make sure that medications that will help with allergies are readily available.

Squally winds and thunderstorms

In some areas, summer brings thunderstorms and heavy rain. If you work in an area where rain is the norm in the summer, workers must be prepared to leave the scaffold as soon as a thunderstorm begins. If lightning flashes and thunder roars, then you cannot work on scaffolding. Workers must go to shelter in case of sudden deterioration in weather (rain, strong wind, hail). You should check the weather forecast before the start of each work day so that you can change your plan in case of bad weather, for example, changing your working hours to more favorable times.

Explosions from overheating

Aerosol cans may explode when exposed to direct sunlight, so they should be stored in a place protected from the sun. The same applies to other equipment that is not designed for prolonged exposure to sunlight.

If you have time, read our other article “Working on scaffolding during the summer heat.”

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