The hazard
Summer brings long days, high heat, strong sun, storms, bugs and new seasonal workers who do not know the site yet. Heat illness can come on fast, and a tired, overheated worker is more likely to make mistakes. There is no final federal OSHA heat standard, but water must be provided and the general duty to train still applies. Some states have their own heat rules, so check yours.
The action
On construction sites where harmful plants or animals are present, workers who may be exposed must be told the hazards, how to avoid injury and the first aid to use. Learn what poison ivy, ticks, stinging insects and snakes look like in this area. Use repellent, check for ticks after work, and tell your foreman if you are allergic to stings. (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(4))
ASK THE CREW
What is our plan when a storm rolls in?
From the talk: Summer safety. Read it in full, free, with the questions and the sign-in sheet.