Hot Weather Tips for Construction: Surviving Summer (and Purgatory) the Southwest Scaffolding Way

At Southwest Scaffolding, we serve regions all across the U.S., but let’s get one thing straight—we're based in Texas. And if you're not from here, you might think you know heat. But until you've worked on a jobsite in a hardhat-scorching, shirt-sticking, tool-handle-melting Texas July, let us assure you: you don't know heat like Texas knows heat.

Let’s clear something up about Texas seasons. Sure, we have them—technically. Spring lasts about a week. Summer shows up in May and hangs around through June. Then, we enter what locals lovingly call Purgatory: a 3-4 month stretch of sweltering, soul-searching, “why do I do this for a living?” heat. If hell is anything like August in Texas, we’re all making better life choices now.

And while we might laugh (so we don’t cry), extreme heat is no joke on a construction site. Whether you're scaffolding skyscrapers in Dallas or laying brick in Boise, high temperatures demand serious preparation and smart safety practices.

Here’s your hot weather survival guide from the team who lives in it:

? 1. Hydrate or Die-drate

This isn’t just a catchy phrase. Dehydration sneaks up fast when you’re out in the sun. Make sure you're drinking water, not just energy drinks or sodas. OSHA recommends one cup (8 oz) of water every 15–20 minutes when working in hot conditions. Start hydrating before you hit the jobsite, and keep it steady throughout the day.

? 2. Dress Smart

It sounds backwards, but long sleeves made of light, breathable, UV-resistant fabrics can keep you cooler and prevent sunburn. Light-colored clothing reflects heat, and don’t forget a wide-brimmed hard hat liner or neck shade to protect your head and neck from direct sun.

⏰ 3. Adjust Your Schedule When You Can

Start early, break during the hottest hours (usually 1-4 p.m.), and wrap up before your boots start to melt into the pavement. If you have control over your schedule, stagger shifts or rotate tasks so no one’s in the danger zone too long.

? 4. Know the Signs of Heat Stress

Train your crew to recognize symptoms of heat-related illness:

• Heat Exhaustion: dizziness, weakness, heavy sweating, nausea, fast heartbeat.

• Heat Stroke: confusion, slurred speech, hot/dry skin, unconsciousness. This is an emergency—call 911 immediately.

Make sure everyone knows where the shade is and has access to cooling options like fans, wet towels, or cooling vests.

?️ 5. Inspect Equipment—Heat Affects That Too

Extreme heat can warp materials and weaken structural integrity. Scaffolding, ladders, and platforms can expand, shift, or become dangerously hot to the touch. Do a quick check before using equipment—especially metal—during high heat days.

? 6. Stay Compliant with New OSHA Rules

OSHA continues to roll out stronger enforcement of heat illness prevention. They’ve increased inspections for heat exposure, especially in construction. Make sure your jobsite includes:

• A written heat illness prevention plan.

• Designated rest and hydration breaks.

• Emergency procedures for heat-related illnesses.

Even if you're not in Texas, OSHA is watching—so get your policies in place now.

? 7. Talk About It Daily

A two-minute heat safety reminder at morning meetings can save lives. Normalize conversations about heat and health. Encourage your team to speak up when they need water, rest, or relief.

In Conclusion…

Whether you're deep in the Texas Purgatory season or enjoying a mild Northern breeze (jealous), heat is a hazard that deserves respect. At Southwest Scaffolding, we want you to stay productive and protected. Plan ahead, protect your crew, and keep building smart.

Because when you're working with scaffolding 50 feet up, it's not just the job that’s elevated—the risks are too.

Stay safe, stay cool, and if you’re in Texas… maybe keep that hard hat in the fridge overnight.