Defeat the Summer Heat

sunSummer has arrived, and so have increased train traffic and temperatures. It’s important for everyone to be alert and on top of their game so BRC can have an injury-free summer.

Warning signs of mild to moderate dehydration include:

  • A dry, sticky mouth
  • Thirst
  • Dry skin
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Dizziness, light-headedness
  • Fatigue

Warning signs of severe dehydration include:

  • Extreme thirst
  • Little to no urine
  • Sunken eyes
  • Shriveled or dry skin that has lost its elasticity
  • Low blood pressure
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Rapid breathing
  • Fever

No matter the season, beginning the day with a proper job briefing is an essential component to safety. Establish work expectations, assign tasks, develop a timeline for work completion, and discuss how the summer weather may affect employees’ safety and nature of the work to be performed.

During the workday, remind one another to take breaks, hydrate and reapply sunscreen. Often the mix of heat and humidity can cause severe dehydration, which could lead to employees passing out or getting heat strokes.