In the UK, warmer days and lighter evenings tend to lift our spirits and help us relax. However, while the summer season brings many benefits, rising temperatures can also present specific challenges for those working with Material Handling Equipment (MHE).
When working in hot weather, forklift operators must remain aware of the risks of heat stress and take necessary precautions to stay safe. As a manager, how can you help in this situation? Well, there are many possible measures for effective managers and supervisors to consider.
We’ve put together some useful guidance for those overseeing MHE operators during warmer periods.
Flexible working patterns
Can you offer your operators more flexible working patterns? While this might not be feasible on every site, adjusting shift schedules during particularly hot periods could allow staff to work during the cooler parts of the day, creating a more comfortable working environment.
Staying hydrated
Ensure that free drinking water is readily available for anyone working in warm weather. Staying hydrated is essential, especially in hot conditions. By placing water stations in easily accessible locations, workers can maintain proper hydration throughout their shift.
Dress Code
Can you relax the dress code to help staff stay cooler in warm weather? Allowing lighter, more breathable clothing makes a significant difference in high temperatures. This not only improves comfort but also helps prevent body temperatures from reaching unsafe levels during physical activity.
Weather-appropriate PPE
It’s essential to provide operators with weather-appropriate PPE. For example, a lightweight hi-vis vest can offer the same level of visibility as a thicker jacket, while helping to keep the individual cooler in hot conditions.
Additionally, encourage operators to remove their PPE during breaks and spend time in shaded areas away from direct sunlight. This helps reduce heat exposure and supports overall wellbeing during warm shifts.
Manage workload and exposure
Consider scheduling more physically demanding tasks during the cooler parts of the day. By doing so, these activities can be carried out more comfortably and safely, reducing the risk of heat-related stress and fatigue.
Operator responsibilities
Though management can have a strong influence on those working in warm weather, operators must take some responsibility for their own safety and wellbeing.
Staying hydrated throughout the day and arriving at work in the appropriate clothing to match the conditions are two factors that sit under the operator’s control.
It is also advisable for operators to pace themselves and avoid overexertion, especially during the hottest parts of the day. If an operator begins to develop concerns for their safety while working in high temperatures, they should communicate this to a supervisor as quickly as possible, so that the appropriate action is taken.
The safety of those on your site should remain the number one priority and therefore ensuring that relevant measures are in place to ensure that this can be maintained, whatever the weather, is vital. Anything that compromises your team’s ability to work in a way that keeps everyone onsite safe needs to be taken care of as a matter of importance.
If you’re still unsure on what actions to take during warm weather conditions, consult the extensive guidance from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) on how to keep workplace temperatures comfortable.
For any advice on MHE training and safety solutions, please contact us here or call 01246 555222 and speak with an expert member of our team today.