Workplace Safety in the Heat – First Aid for Construction and Outdoor Teams

As UK summers become hotter and more prolonged, it’s more important than ever to understand how heat affects outdoor workers — especially those in construction, landscaping, agriculture, and similar sectors.

Working in high temperatures isn't just uncomfortable — it can be dangerous. Exposure to the sun and heat can cause heat exhaustion, dehydration, sunstroke, and even life-threatening conditions like heatstroke. For employers, this brings serious legal, moral and health responsibilities under HSE guidance.

At Essex First Aid & Wellbeing, we deliver tailored training for businesses with outdoor teams, equipping staff with the knowledge and skills to spot, treat and prevent heat-related illness at work.

This blog explores practical First Aid advice, employer responsibilities, and what every outdoor team should know this summer.

Heat Hazards in Outdoor Work

Common hot weather risks include:

• Heat exhaustion and heatstroke

• Severe sunburn

• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

• Dizziness and fainting

• Reduced concentration leading to accidents

• Aggravation of existing medical conditions

Even in the UK, temperatures of 25°C+ can be hazardous for workers engaged in physical labour, especially in direct sunlight, confined spaces, or on reflective surfaces (like scaffolding or asphalt).

Know the Difference: Heat Exhaustion vs Heatstroke

Heat Exhaustion:

• Heavy sweating

• Weakness or fatigue

• Dizziness and nausea

• Headache

• Muscle cramps

• Cool, pale or clammy skin

• Normal or slightly raised body temperature

Heatstroke (medical emergency):

• Body temp above 40°C

• Hot, dry skin (no sweating)

• Confusion, disorientation

• Seizures or loss of consciousness

• Rapid heartbeat

• Can lead to organ failure or death

First Aid for Heat-Related Illnesses

For Heat Exhaustion:

1. Move the person to a shaded or cool area.

2. Remove outer clothing and loosen anything tight.

3. Encourage sips of water or electrolyte drinks.

4. Cool them with wet cloths, fans or water spray.

5. Monitor for improvement.

If symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes — or worsen — treat as heatstroke.

For Suspected Heatstroke:

1. Call 999 immediately — this is life-threatening.

2. Move to a cool place and lay flat with legs raised.

3. Cool rapidly using water, fans, or ice packs on the neck/armpits/groin.

4. Do not give fluids if the person is unconscious.

5. Monitor breathing and be ready to begin CPR if necessary.

Prevention Tips for Employers and Site Managers

• Set up a cooling station with water, electrolytes and seating

• Introduce a “buddy system” to check for early signs of heat stress

• Rotate workers doing the most intense physical labour

• Use sun barriers or temporary shelters where possible

• Allow longer rest breaks during peak heat (11am–3pm)

• Educate teams about the early signs of heat illness

• Encourage lightweight, light-coloured breathable uniforms

What to Include in a Summer-Ready First Aid Kit

Every outdoor site should have a First Aid kit adapted for hot weather, including:

• Oral rehydration salts

• Cooling gel packs

• Foil blankets (can also be used for shade)

• High-factor sunscreen (SPF 30+)

• Wide-brimmed hats (available as PPE)

• Aloe vera or burn dressings

• Electrolyte sachets

• Thermometer

• Emergency contact list

• Training reference card (for heat exhaustion vs heatstroke)

Stay Safe, Stay Cool – Train with EFAW

Don’t wait until the next heatwave hits. Prepare your team now with tailored First Aid training for high temperatures and outdoor risk environments.