Dear ladies and gentlemen, dear readers,

The warmest week of the year so far in Germany may be behind us, but the next heatwave is already looming in many places. Before then, it is important to plan preventative protective measures against the dangers of heat on construction sites.

You can find out more about this below!

Best regards

Your team from DA

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Hazards caused by heat on construction sites

High temperatures can put a lot of strain on the body, especially during (heavy) physical labour, and lead to an increased need for heat dissipation. Before temperatures exceed 30 degrees again, it is important to plan preventive protective measures against heat hazards on construction sites.

Did you know that employees over the age of 50 and new recruits are more at risk of heat-related illnesses than other employees? This group should be given special attention and care should be taken to ensure sufficient hydration and gradual acclimatisation of (new) employees.

It is important that possible warning signs of heat-related illnesses, such as nausea, headaches, extreme thirst or confusion in yourself or your colleagues, are recognised and taken seriously at an early stage. Shade, cooling (for example with damp cloths) and first aid must then be organised quickly.

In an emergency, it must be clear:

• Alert the emergency services immediately (call 112)
• Move the affected person into the shade
• If overheated, cool them with damp cloths or water
• If unconscious, place them in the recovery position
• If breathing has stopped, carry out resuscitation measures until the emergency services arrive

Heat risk assessment

To ensure that employees can work safely, there are various ways to minimise heat-related performance restrictions and heat-related illnesses in the workplace.

You can find out how to plan ahead on the BG Bau’s “Sun and heat” topic page (only available in German).