Summer Work Safety Tips

Longer days during the summer generally keep people outside more. More light hours also give many an opportunity to earn some extra income. If you are not careful, however, spending long hours under the sun can have serious health consequences. Fortunately, if you take the time to apply some summer work safety tips, you can enjoy your summer while you earn some extra cash.

• Wear sunscreen with a sun protector factor (SPF) of no less than 30. If you work long hours outside, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. If you sweat excessively, reapply sunscreen more often.

• Protect yourself. A floppy hat is ideal to protect your face and neck from direct sunlight. Wear cotton, light-colored clothes to repel sunlight. Loose clothing allows air to circulate and keep your body cool.

• Wear wraparound sunglasses. As stated on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's website, UV radiation can increase the risk of developing cataracts.

• Take breaks and stay cool. If you work under direct sunlight, find a shaded area where you can take short breaks to bring your body temperature down.

• Stay hydrated. Drink the recommended 8 to 10 glasses of water. Avoid drinking too much water all at once. It's better to drink small amounts throughout the day. Avoid caffeinated drinks, as they are diuretics and cause the body to lose fluids.

• Listen to your body. Dizziness and nausea are signs that your body is overheated. Look for a shaded area, and if possible, drink cold water. Ignoring your symptoms could lead to a heatstroke and land you in the hospital.