STAYING IN TOUCH: JACQUELYN ODURO
In heavy construction, we do hard physical work like lifting, digging, grading, hauling, and working around hot equipment—often for long hours. When the weather heats up, so does the risk of heat stress, especially during tough jobs or long shifts.
To stay safe, we don’t just check the outside temperature. We use something called the wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT). It gives us a better idea of how hot it really feels by factoring in not just the temperature, but also the humidity, sunlight, and wind.
This is really important on construction sites because we’re often working in the sun, around hot machines, and in areas with little air movement—while doing high-effort work like pouring concrete, trenching, or lifting heavy materials.
How to use the WBGT chart:
- Take a WBGT reading
- Use a handheld WBGT meter and measure the heat in your working zone (not in the shade or trailer). You can find WBGT meters at suppliers like MacMor, Acklands-Grainger, Home Depot, or on Amazon.
- Determine workload
- Light: Inspections, light equipment operation
- Moderate: Power tool use, formwork, setting rebar
- Heavy: Digging, concrete pouring, jackhammering, demolition, lifting or carrying heavy loads
- Check the chart
Match the WBGT reading and workload level to see:
- How long you can work before a rest break is needed
- When to provide cooling stations
- If you need to rotate crews or shorten tasks
WBGT chart for construction workers:
Preventing heat stress in heavy construction:
- Hydrate frequently
- Rest in shaded or cooled areas
- Pace yourself – especially on longer tasks
- Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking PPE
- Use a buddy system – check on each other, especially on high-heat days
- Watch for early signs – headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, confusion, nausea
Heavy construction is tough work—and heat makes it even tougher. The WBGT chart helps us stay safe by guiding smarter work schedules and preventing heat-related illnesses.
When WBGT readings are high, it’s time to slow down, cool off, and speak up.
