Heat is a killer. Insist on air-conditioning

When the temperature rises too much it can become a health and safety issue. If people get too hot, they risk dizziness, fainting, or even heat cramps. In very hot conditions the body’s blood temperature rises. If the blood temperature rises above 39°C, there is a risk of heat stroke or collapse. Delirium or confusion can occur above 41°C. Blood temperatures at this level can prove fatal and even if a worker does recover, they may suffer irreparable organ damage.

The TUC has called for a maximum temperature of 30°C so that employers and workers know when action must be taken. However, even if the temperature is slightly below that, employers should still attempt to reduce temperatures if they get above 24°C and workers feel uncomfortable.

As the summer begins, plant users should be aware of the dangers of renting equipment without air-conditioning. Good practice is that cab windows should be closed at all times given that sites suffer from construction dust which only requires a small amount to be inhaled to increase the risk of lung cancer, COPD and silicosis. Yet, without air-conditioning a closed cab acts like a greenhouse and can quickly result in untolerable temperatures of 40°C or more.

The safety and welfare of plant operators has to be a top priority at all times. Whilst air-conditioning might seem like an unnecessary luxury to some, to others it is an essential requirement that protects operators and provides an environment that they can work in. As a consequence, they are likely to be more productive and less prone to accidents.

Demand for equipment with air-conditioning increases during the summer period. Ardent’s equipment is fitted with air-conditioning as standard. Contact us for more information or to reserve your machine.