For many pest management professionals, summer is the busiest time of the year. This year, however, the season has started with an added challenge. An intense heat dome blanketed much of the United States as July began, pushing temperatures well into the 90s and even triple digits across large portions of the country.

For technicians working long days outdoors, in crawlspaces, attics, and other confined areas, extreme heat isn't just uncomfortable, it can quickly become a serious safety hazard.

While pest pressure may increase during the summer months, so does the importance of protecting employees from heat-related illnesses. Proper planning, training, and awareness can help reduce risk and keep technicians safe throughout the season.

Recognize the Warning Signs

The body's natural cooling system works hard during periods of extreme heat. High temperatures, humidity, direct sunlight, protective clothing, and physically demanding tasks all increase the risk of heat-related illness.

Every technician should recognize the warning signs before they become emergencies. Heat exhaustion often develops first and may include:

• Heavy sweating
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Weakness or fatigue
• Cool, clammy skin

If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency. Warning signs include hot, dry skin, confusion, rapid pulse, loss of consciousness, or altered mental status. Immediate medical attention is critical.

Don't Ignore Overexertion

Heat places additional stress on the body, especially during physically demanding work such as lifting equipment, climbing ladders, treating attics, or working in crawlspaces.

Encourage technicians to listen to their bodies. If they begin experiencing dizziness, muscle cramps, excessive sweating, nausea, or unusual fatigue, they should stop working, move to a cooler location, hydrate, and notify a supervisor if symptoms persist.

Pushing through the discomfort can quickly turn a manageable situation into a medical emergency.

Practical Ways to Beat the Heat

A strong heat safety program begins before technicians leave the shop each morning. Help reduce heat-related risks by encouraging employees to:

• Stay hydrated before, during, and after the workday. Water should be consumed consistently, not just when they feel thirsty.
• Schedule physically demanding work during the cooler parts of the day whenever possible.
• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned locations.
• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing along with appropriate sun protection.
• Gradually acclimate new employees and those returning after extended time away from work.
• Watch for signs of heat stress in coworkers and speak up immediately if someone appears to be struggling.
• Review emergency procedures so everyone knows how to respond if a heat-related illness occurs.

Make Heat Safety Part of Your Culture

Extreme heat is becoming more common, making preparation more important than ever.

Regular safety meetings during the summer should include discussions about hydration, workload management, route planning, and recognizing heat-related illnesses. Supervisors should also encourage technicians to communicate when conditions become unsafe without fear of criticism or pressure to "push through."

The safest organizations create an environment where employees understand that protecting themselves is just as important as completing the day's route.

PestSure: Your Partner in Safety

At PestSure, we believe effective risk management starts long before an accident occurs. Helping pest management companies prepare for seasonal hazards like extreme heat protects employees, reduces claims, and keeps businesses operating safely during their busiest months.

As temperatures continue to climb this summer, take the time to review your heat safety procedures with your team. A few minutes of preparation today can help prevent a serious incident tomorrow.

Founded in 1980, PestSure is the only insurance and risk management provider exclusively dedicated to the pest management industry. Today, PestSure provides insurance, safety, and risk management consulting to pest management companies representing approximately $2 billion in annual revenue, more than $600 million in payroll, and over 11,500 service vehicles nationwide. PestSure is administered by Alliant Insurance Services.

To learn more, call 888.984.3813 or visit www.PestSure.com