Commentary

A restaurant owner's safety guide to keeping employees cool during summer heat

Employees are at risk in the summer heat.

August 13, 2018

By Dan Killins, Loss control program manager, EMPLOYERS

Whether escaping the heat at a beachside restaurant or relaxing on an outdoor dining patio, summer is a great time to enjoy going out to eat. However, for restaurant staff, working outdoors or in a hot kitchen during the scorching summer months without proper precautions can be agonizing and sometimes life-threatening.

Extreme heat causes more than 1,300 deaths a year in the United States, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Heat exposure — whether from the sun or a hot working environment — can be a contributing factor to employee injury or illness. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause heat-related illnesses, such as heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

To keep employees safe and healthy, restaurant owners should identify and minimize potential heat-related risks in the workplace and train employees on the appropriate response.

Identify potential risks

The first step toward creating a safer work environment is to identify conditions that could lead to heat-related illnesses. For instance, does the kitchen staff in close proximity to heat-producing grills, ovens and fryers? Are servers and bussers exposed to direct sunlight and/or spending more time outdoors during the hottest time of the day?

Take preventive measures

Once the potential hazards are identified, the next step is to map out mitigation strategies. For outdoor employees, sun canopies, portable fans, extra water and other resources can help create a more comfortable environment whenever possible. Be sure fans and air conditioning units are available and working properly in warm indoor environments, such as kitchens and prep areas. Warmer temperatures may tempt some workers to attempt to stay cooler by not wearing certain safety equipment, such as protective clothing. Even in hot summer months, make sure everyone wears the necessary safety equipment for their jobs.

Working in hot and sunny environments or near hot ovens, grills and fryers all day can wear down employees, so schedule regular breaks for employees in the shade or other cool environments. If a restaurant has an outdoor patio, consider rotating which servers are assigned to the patio tables to reduce their sun exposure. It is also important to encourage employees to stay hydrated by drinking approximately a cup of water every 15 – 20 minutes.

Train employees on rapid response

Even if restaurants implement preventative measures, heat-related injuries and illnesses may still occur. That’s why it’s important for all employees to know the signs of heat-related illnesses and how to address them quickly and appropriately.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration outlines the signs of heat-related illnesses and provides guidance on the proper steps to take to treat heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. For example, to treat heat cramps, have workers rest in shady, cool areas and drink water or other cool beverages. If an employee is severely lethargic or unresponsive after working in a high-temperature environment, contact 911 immediately.

When temperatures rise, so do the risks of heat-related illnesses and injuries. Mitigate these risks by developing a safe work environment where employees can stay cool and safe all summer long.