As we move through September, the heat continues to bear down in the south - and for utility workers, that means staying vigilant against the dangers of high temperatures. Working outdoors in extreme heat presents serious risks, but with the right preparation, workers can stay safe and productive.

Recognizing the Dangers

Heat-related illness can come on quickly, particularly for utility workers who often perform physically demanding tasks in tough conditions. Factors like humidity, direct sun exposure, limited airflow, protective clothing, and PPE can all intensify heat stress.

According to OSHA, thousands of workers suffer from heat-related illnesses each year, and some cases are fatal - yet most are preventable with proper planning and safety practices.

Building Heat Tolerance

Most heat-related fatalities occur in the first few days of exposure. That’s because the body needs time to adapt to sudden spikes in temperature - a process called heat acclimatization.

When done correctly, acclimatization improves the body’s ability to regulate temperature, increases sweating efficiency, and reduces strain on the heart. The National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) provides acclimatization guidelines:

• Experienced workers: Start at half a normal shift on day one, then gradually build to full capacity by day four.
  
  
• New workers: Begin with no more than 20% of a shift on day one, increasing by 20% each day for 7–14 days.
  
  

Workers typically maintain acclimatization after just a couple days off the job, but extended absences may require restarting the process. Physical fitness and individual health also play a role, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Choosing the Right Gear

After acclimatization, OSHA identifies poor clothing choices as the next biggest contributor to heat-related risks. While protective gear is necessary for hazards like punctures or arc flashes, clothing that traps heat can quickly push a worker into heat stress.

Fortunately, today’s flame-resistant (FR) workwear is more comfortable than ever. Instead of stiff, heavy fabrics, workers now have access to lightweight FR T-shirts, breathable jeans, and hybrid fabrics with some moisture-wicking benefits.

Portwest offers industry leading flame resistant solutions. Their lightweight work shirts will keep you comfortable and protected in the toughest environments. Some features include a vented back, radio loop and an extra long shirt tail to ensure the garment stays in place when tucked in.

Find the Portwest flame-resistant workwear here: Flame Resistant Products at GUS

Cotton is a long-standing favorite for hot-weather workwear because of its breathability, while moisture-wicking technology can also help keep workers cooler. However, not all moisture-wicking fabrics are flame-resistant, so workers must ensure their clothing meets safety requirements. Employers can help by offering a range of approved gear to suit individual comfort preferences.

Occunomix t-shirts are 100% ANSI wicking birdseye polyester, designed to provide comfort and dryness. The moisture-wicking fabric draws moisture away from the body, promoting evaporation to keep you cool and dry.

Find the Occunomix moisture-wicking cotton shirts here: Safety T-Shirts available at Georgia Underground Superstore

Rest, Hydration, and Cooling Strategies

Taking breaks and staying hydrated are essential to preventing heat illness. Workers should:

• Rest whenever discomfort sets in, ideally in shaded areas or an air-conditioned vehicle.
  
  
• Follow NIOSH’s recommended work/rest cycles — for example, at 95°F, strenuous work should be limited to 45 minutes followed by a 15-minute rest; at 104°F, work should be limited to 20 minutes with 40 minutes of rest.
  
  
• Drink at least 8 ounces of cold water every 15–20 minutes, and supplement with low-sugar, electrolyte-rich beverages when sweating heavily. Find an essential electrolyte mix here: Overtime Electrolyte Replacement SHOTZ (10 assorted pks a box) - OT-10VAR24CT - Get It At GUS
  
  
• Consider cooling products like cooling neck towels, which provide extra relief in extreme heat. Look here: Blue MiraCool PVA Cooling Towel- Get at GUS!
  
  

By listening to their bodies and sticking to safe routines, utility workers can dramatically reduce the risk of heat illness.

Georgia Underground Superstore: Supporting Utility Workers

At Georgia Underground Superstore, we understand the challenges utility workers face — especially during the peak summer heat. That’s why we’re committed to providing high-quality safety gear, flame-resistant apparel, and innovative solutions to help workers stay protected on the job. From breathable FR clothing to cooling accessories, we’ve got the tools you need to beat the heat while staying compliant and safe.

Browse all Safety Products here: Personal Protection Gear for Utility Workers at GUS