As Calgary experiences an unprecedented heatwave, outdoor workers, including Infinity Asphalt employees, face the challenge of staying cool while continuing their tasks. The hot temperatures are not just uncomfortable; they pose health risks, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. However, summer is the only season when asphalt work can effectively take place in Calgary. This blog post delves into why asphalt work must be done in the summer and how Infinity Asphalt employees stay safe, offering practical tips for anyone who needs to beat the heat.
Why Summer is Ideal for Asphalt Work in Calgary
Optimal Temperature for Asphalt: Asphalt requires warm temperatures to be properly laid and compacted. The summer heat ensures that the asphalt mix remains workable and can be spread and smoothed effectively.
Reduced Risk of Cracking: Cold temperatures can cause asphalt to cool too quickly, leading to cracks and structural issues. Summer heat allows the asphalt to cool at a slower rate, resulting in a more durable and long-lasting surface.
Improved Adhesion: Warm weather helps the asphalt adhere better to the underlying surface, ensuring a stronger bond and reducing the likelihood of potholes and other surface defects.
Strategies We Use to Stay Cool
Hydration is Key: Providing staff with ice water and electrolyte solutions to maintain the body’s salt balance.
Scheduled Breaks: Offering shaded areas for rest and taking more frequent breaks to cool down.
Appropriate Clothing: Ensuring our team members are wearing their lighter, breathable Infinity Asphalt sun shirts and sun hats.
Adjusting Work Hours: Shifting outdoor activities to earlier in the morning and finishing earlier in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day.
Additional Time Off: Allowing additional rest during extreme weather wherever possible to help the body recover and stay cool.
Monitoring Health: Vigilantly watching for signs of heat-related illnesses and reporting any symptoms immediately.
Our Commitment to Employee Safety
At Infinity Asphalt, the health and safety of our employees during extreme weather conditions is our top priority. We implement all the strategies mentioned above to ensure our team’s well-being and go above and beyond the requirements of occupational health and safety regulations to provide the highest level of protection.
Tips for All Outdoor Enthusiasts & Employees
These strategies are beneficial for anyone spending time outside during extreme heat. Stay hydrated, take regular breaks, wear appropriate clothing, and be mindful of the heat.
Conclusion
As Calgary continues to experience extreme heat, it’s essential for outdoor workers to take proactive steps to stay cool and safe. At Infinity Asphalt, we are committed to ensuring our employees’ safety by implementing comprehensive heat safety measures and fostering a supportive work environment. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe!
Featured on CTV News
We are thrilled to have been featured on CTV News! For more insights and detailed coverage on how outdoor workers, including Infinity Asphalt employees, are managing the heatwave, check out the full CTV News article and video here.