The One-Two Knockout to Beat Workplace Heat Stress

Well, guess what? It’s summer again.  And – lo and behold – it’s scorching hot out there. While the extreme heat may send you running for the nearest swimming pool, it can also cause reduced productivity and dangerous medical complications in the workplace. Let’s dive a bit deeper. (See what we did there?)

Could your facility answer ‘yes’ to any or all of the following?

  • Does employee productivity decrease during the summer months when temperatures are elevated?

  • Do employees complain about the lack of airflow in the workplace?

  • Do processes or equipment produce heat that could be dissipated by air circulators?

  • Do certain manufacturing or assembly processes create a large amount of condensation?

  • Are there products or components that should be cooled after manufacturing?

So what can be done to neutralize this formidable opponent? How about the all-important one-two punch of air movement?

ONE: VENTILATE

Moving air through supply and exhaust ventilation not only cools the workplace environment and makes it more comfortable, it also helps control airborne contaminants. Industrial ventilation can also help prevent the buildup of noxious fumes, fire, and odors. Exhausting the hot air from your facility will go a long way toward keeping the temperature, humidity, and air quality at a safe level.

TWO: CIRCULATE

Without movement, air can stratify and stagnate, creating pockets and layers of hot, humid air. In addition, heat leaves our body more quickly when a breeze is present. Fans create airflow that quickly evaporates perspiration from our skin, carrying away heat. The airflow also reduces the thickness of the hot, humid layer of insulating air that builds up around our bodies, thus improving heat dissipation. In short, fans make our natural cooling mechanisms more efficient. Use high-volume, low-speed ceiling fans and high-velocity fans to improve air circulation and natural cooling.

So there you have it! The one-two punch to knockout heat stress and keep your employees safe, happy, and productive this summer. And, as always, trust Patterson to be there with the right product for every air movement application. From ventilation to circulation, Patterson’s got you covered!