Summer is in full swing, and we know crews are battling extreme heat conditions in many parts of the country. In this article, we’re offering practical tips for worker safety and roofing product protection.

By Robert Anderson, CSI, CDT

Last summer ranked amongst the warmest on record, according to data from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and we are seeing the same in 2024. With that said, here are some tips and reminders to consider this summer to keep your crews and products safe!

Roofing Crew Safety

• Begin the workday as early as possible, as the temperatures are cooler in the morning. 

• Don’t skip the protective gear. Vests, hard hats, gloves, and fall protection gear help prevent injuries. 

• Wear all light-colored cotton or color-reflecting comfortable clothing while working in the heat. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester may accumulate static charge more easily. 
• Wear safety glasses with UV protection and apply water-resistant sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 as needed throughout the day. 
• Stay well hydrated. Take periodic breaks in the shade and hydrate frequently. Alternate energy or sports drinks with water, and pass on sodas and caffeinated beverages.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand at all times, and regularly contain and remove job site debris and rubbish.
• Train your team to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in themselves and others. Have a planned method of egress from the roof. 

If anyone experiences any of the following symptoms, move them to a safe place and seek immediate medical attention:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Rapid heartbeat
• Confusion 

Protection of Roofing Materials

• Store primers, adhesives, and cleaners out of direct sunlight and away from your immediate work area when not in use. Do the same with empty containers, used brushes, and other debris.
• In the case of spray-applied adhesives, do not remove a canister from its carton until just prior to application. Do not leave hoses or nozzles in the open before or after use or overnight. 
• Keep product information sheets and Safety Data Sheets readily accessible.
• For many adhesives, heat accelerates dry times and causes them to achieve their full bond faster. Adjust working times and application rates accordingly. 
• Pop-up storms are more common in the summer, so only attempt to install as much material as you can reasonably complete that day. Sudden drops in temperature may cause thermal shock, which can negatively affect the installed materials.  

Finishing projects on time and on budget is important, but your safety and the safety of those around you should always be number one priority. Here’s to a safe summer season on the roofs!

Robert Anderson is a regional account manager on the Elevate Commercial Roofing Systems team. In his role, Anderson is responsible for providing a best-in-class customer experience and partnership to building owners, building envelope consultants, and the architectural community, with our premium commercial roofing portfolio. He has extensive knowledge of the industry, and we’re grateful for his 20 years with our organization!