Now that summer has introduced itself with longer days and rising temperatures, spray foam applicators must prepare to spray safe and avoid heat stroke/exhaustion. It’s known that during the summer, spray foam projects tend to have a bit more downtime due to overheating of not only equipment, but to it’s applicators. As if an applicators extreme job conditions like burrowing in dirt, balancing on rafters and climbing to rooftops isn’t enough, summer brings the added risk of a heat stroke/exhaustion.
As we know in the spray foam industry, anything going wrong can lead to downtime on a job. so we want to share some tips that will help keep you
safe to avoid heat illness and keep your lovely smiling boss/contractor/homeowner happy that the project will be completed on time. Every sprayer has their own techniques and items they bring on every job. Below is a useful list of items you will find useful to help prevent heat stroke/exhaustion:
Fresh Air System (ex. Tennessee Chill Box,) The fresh air system will allow you air conditioned fresh air supplied air to be supplied into your air mask. (visit our online store for fresh air systems
Pickle Juice /Gatorade /Water – Cooler of Ice. Pickle Juice is packed with electrolytes that help relieve muscle craps and help prevent dehydration. Gatorade is also another choice for replenishing electrolytes. Be sure to hydrate with Water throughout the day and keep all of these items in a cooler full of ice.
Moisture wicking apparel ie: Under Armour. Cotton apparel will absorb moisture causing discomfort while working in the heat. Moisture wicking apparel is light and designed to keep you cool and dry.
Baby Powder. With the amount of sweat you are likely to produce while spraying, trust you will need some baby powder so help prevent skin irritation.
Sunscreen. Use for outdoor applications.
It is important to also keep a chart handy to be able to recognize heat stroke and heat exhaustion. This will allow you to notice the signs of heat illness and to have an action plan in place. The earlier you arrive on job sites, you can cut down your exposure to the heat. By following these tips, you will help avoid potential harm to your body and keep your jobsite safe and running.
