Working outdoors in hot weather presents a number of risks, including ultraviolet (UV) radiation, sunglare, and heat stress. These risks can be made worse by wearing the wrong type of personal protective equipment (PPE). It’s important to select PPE that not only protects against sun exposure, but also helps keep the wearer cool and comfortable.

Eye protection in bright conditions

The eyes are particularly vulnerable to UV damage, which can lead to vision problems, cataracts, and even eye cancer. Bright sunlight and sunglare can also restrict vision, increasing the risk of accidents—especially when working near reflective surfaces like water or when operating machinery.

To reduce these risks:

Use safety eyewear with UV-filtering lenses. Both clear and tinted lenses can offer UV protection.

Choose tinted lenses for additional sunglare protection, ensuring they still allow clear colour recognition.

When using mesh visors (such as in forestry applications), remember they do not provide UV protection. Additional UV-rated eyewear should be worn underneath.

Forestry helmets and browguard systems with integrated eye shields can offer added UV protection.

Head protection for hot weather

• Wearing a helmet in high temperatures can be uncomfortable, but the right choice of features and accessories helps reduce heat stress and improves comfort:
• Use ventilated helmets to allow heat to escape and reduce sweat build-up.
• For helmets with internal liners, a suspension harness improves airflow by creating space between the head and helmet shell.
• If permitted, choose a light-coloured helmet. White or yellow helmets reflect sunlight, while darker colours absorb heat.
• Helmet neck capes shield the neck from UV exposure and can be rated to UPF 50+ under EN 13758-1.
• Consider cooling sweatbands that can be soaked in water and worn inside the helmet. These provide evaporative cooling for up to 10 hours.

Other key considerations

• Take regular breaks in shaded areas and ensure drinking water is always available.
• Encourage workers to remove PPE during breaks to cool down.
• Use high factor sunscreen to protect exposed skin from UV damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
• For respiratory protection, a loose-fitting powered respirator (PAPR) is generally more comfortable in hot weather than a tight-fitting mask. Airflow from the unit also helps keep the wearer cool.
• Choosing PPE that addresses both sun protection and comfort helps reduce the risk of heat-related illness and injury. Always assess the conditions and select equipment that supports safe, comfortable outdoor work.

Summary of key points:

• Choose eyewear with UV protection—clear or tinted lenses depending on glare level.
• Always wear additional eye protection with mesh visors.
• Select ventilated or light-coloured helmets for heat reduction.
• Use helmet accessories like neck capes and cooling sweatbands.
• Ensure access to water, shade, and rest breaks.
• Protect skin with sunscreen and long clothing.
• Use PAPR systems for cooler respiratory protection in high temperatures.

If you need further support, please contact our Technical Support Team using the email: technical@jspsafety.com or contact us via our WhatsApp.