PPE in Hot Weather — Balancing Protection and Heat
Construction and general industry · Ver en español
Talking points
- PPE increases heat stress by trapping body heat and reducing evaporative cooling. But removing PPE is not the answer — it trades one hazard for another.
- Cooling vests (phase change or evaporative) can be worn under harnesses and FR clothing to reduce core temperature. They add weight but significantly extend safe working time in heat.
- Vented hard hats allow airflow across the scalp. They are acceptable for most construction work but may not be permitted in electrical environments (check the rating).
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers underneath PPE reduce the amount of sweat trapped against the skin. Avoid cotton under impermeable PPE — it holds moisture and increases discomfort.
- Adjust work/rest cycles when PPE adds to heat load. Workers in full PPE (harness, FR, respirator) may need twice the rest breaks as workers in standard clothing.
Ask the crew
Is the heat causing anyone to skip or loosen their PPE today — and what can we do to make compliance more comfortable?
Standards this talk is built on
- Section 5(a)(1)
A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.
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Sign-in sheet
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