Lower Mainland construction workers warned about safety during heat wave

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — While many are enjoying the early summer heat wave, B.C. construction workers are being asked to keep safety in mind while working out in the elements.

Erin Linde, head of health at BC Construction Safety Alliance, says that means follow the basics.

“Number one is hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. They need to drink water, cool water, every 15 – 20 minutes. The other next really important thing is to just slap on the sunscreen … not just a little,” she says, adding you should also find shade when you can.

Linde adds that employers can help workers to keep safe.

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“Depending on the circumstances, maybe you [employers] have a bunch of ice packs for your workers, or easy access to water, or shady or air con spots.”

She says employers could also consider starting earlier in the day, so workers aren’t outside for the hottest, late-afternoon hours.

“Most people don’t wear enough sunscreen, and do you really really need to just slather on the sunscreen and ensure that you keep putting it on through the day,” she says.

There are no specific rules in B.C. when it comes to shutting down work places during periods of intense heat.