How to Stay Cool and Comfortable in PPE During The Aussie Summer

How to Stay Cool and Comfortable in PPE During The Aussie Summer

Working in construction in Australia, especially in the heat of summer, can be tough. The sun can be scorching, and wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – like hard hats, gloves, and safety glasses – is necessary for safety but can make things feel even hotter. But don’t worry – there are simple ways to keep your team safe, cool, and comfortable while working in the heat.

Here are some practical tips to help your workers stay cool and still protected on the job.

1. Choose the Right Hard Hat

Hard hats are essential for keeping workers safe, but they can get hot when you're wearing them in the sun all day. Traditional hard hats can trap heat, making workers uncomfortable.

Tip: Look for ventilated hard hats that have small air vents to allow heat to escape and air to flow through. You can also find hard hats with cooling sweatbands inside to help absorb sweat. Some even have reflective coatings or special materials that reduce the heat from the sun.

2. Go for Light, Breathable Clothing

Wearing thick, heavy workwear can make anyone feel even hotter. When clothes are too thick, they can trap sweat and make workers feel uncomfortable.

Tip: Choose work shirts and pants made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like polyester or moisture-wicking materials. These fabrics allow sweat to evaporate quickly and help keep the body cool. Many modern uniforms now come with ventilation holes or mesh sections that improve airflow and help keep workers cool. Additionally, look for clothing with UV protection to protect workers from harmful sun rays while still keeping them cool.

3. Pick Comfortable, Breathable Gloves

Gloves are important for protecting hands from cuts and burns, but they can get sweaty in the heat, especially if they’re too thick or tight.

Tip: Choose gloves made from breathable materials like lightweight leather, mesh, or fabric blends. This allows air to flow and reduces sweating. If your workers need more mobility, consider fingerless gloves or ventilated gloves that still offer protection but help keep hands cooler.

4. Invest in Proper Safety Glasses

Safety glasses are important for protecting eyes from dust and flying debris, but the heat can cause them to fog up, making it harder to see clearly.

Tip: Look for anti-fog safety glasses that won’t steam up in the heat. Some models also have ventilated frames to help with airflow, keeping them clearer for longer. Glasses with UV protection will shield eyes from the harsh sun while keeping them cool.

5. Cooling Accessories and PPE Enhancements

Sometimes, PPE on its own isn’t enough to stay cool in extreme heat. Luckily, there are simple accessories that can make a big difference.

• Cooling Vests: These vests are made from special materials that help lower body temperature. They can absorb water and release it slowly to cool the body throughout the day.
• Cooling Towels: You can soak a towel in cold water, then drape it around the neck. This helps cool the body quickly and provides relief from the heat.
• Neck Protectors: For extra sun protection, consider neck protectors made with cooling technology. These can help keep the back of the neck cool and prevent heat buildup.

6. Drink Plenty of Water and Take Regular Breaks

Even with the best PPE, staying hydrated is just as important in the heat. Without enough water, workers can get overheated or even suffer from heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Tip: Make sure workers have access to plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can actually make dehydration worse. Also, encourage regular breaks in shaded or cooler areas to help workers recover and lower their body temperatures.

7. Plan Work Hours Around the Heat

Midday heat in Australia can be intense. If possible, try to adjust your work schedule so that workers are not working through the hottest part of the day.

Tip: Try to start work earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when temperatures are cooler. Adding shade structures or portable tents on-site can also provide workers with some relief during breaks.

8. Regular PPE Maintenance

In the heat, PPE can get dirty and sweaty quickly, and if it's not maintained, it might not work as well.

Tip: Clean and check PPE regularly to make sure it’s still in good condition. For example, make sure hard hats are free of dirt and damage, safety glasses are clean and not scratched, and gloves aren’t worn out. PPE that’s in good condition will help keep workers safe and more comfortable.

Conclusion

Working in the Australian heat is challenging, but with the right PPE and a few easy strategies, you can keep your workers safe and cool. Choosing lightweight, breathable materials for clothing, picking ventilated hard hats, breathable gloves, and anti-fog safety glasses will help workers stay more comfortable. Don’t forget to add cooling accessories and encourage hydration, breaks, and the right work hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

With these simple steps, you can make sure your team stays safe and comfortable, even when the temperature rises. Stay cool, stay safe, and keep your workforce performing at their best all summer long! SiteRite Safety's kits are made for Australian workers in all our challenging environments.