Beat the Heat: Summer Safety Tips for Workers in High-Vis Apparel
When summer arrives, working outside can become challenging. The sun is hotter, the days are longer, and the heat can feel even more intense for workers who wear high-visibility gear. While ANSI-compliant high-visibility safety apparel (HVSA) like Class 2 and Class 3 apparel are essential for staying safe and being seen on busy roads or construction sites, it can also trap heat and cause you to sweat more. That’s why OSHA recommends taking heat safety precautions and why it's so important to stay smart and take extra measures to protect yourself during the year’s hottest months.
Choose Lightweight and Breathable High-Vis Apparel
One of the best things you can do is wear the right kind of high-vis clothing. Not all gear is built the same. If you're working in the heat, you want clothes made from light and breathable materials. Look for mesh fabric or shirts to pull sweat away from your body. These clothes let air flow and help your skin stay cool, even when the sun is blazing.
For even better comfort and hygiene in hot conditions, consider the benefits of antimicrobial high-visibility shirts. These clothing are treated with special agents that help stop the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungi, which can build up quickly in sweaty work environments. Antimicrobial technology keeps your gear fresher for longer, helping reduce the risk of skin irritation, especially when you're working long hours in the sun.
Hydration is Key for Outdoor Workers
Another simple but powerful tip is to drink water. It sounds basic, but many people forget to hydrate while working. When you're sweating under the sun, your body loses water quickly. If you wait until you feel thirsty, you're probably already dehydrated. Keep a water bottle with you and take sips often. Cool water is best, but clean water will do the job even better if your workplace has shaded water stations or reminds workers to take water breaks.
Work Smarter: Avoid Peak Heat Hours
Time of day also matters. The sun is strongest between noon and around 3 p.m. If your job allows it, try to get the heavy tasks done in the morning or later when it's not as hot. Taking short breaks in the shade can also make a big difference. Sitting in the shade for five minutes can help your body cool down and keep you from overheating.
Try Cooling Gear Under Your Hi-Vis Clothing
Some workers find it helpful to use cooling gear. Damp towels or neck wraps can be soaked in cold water and worn around your neck or shoulders. Some cooling vests are designed to be worn under your hi-vis gear and help you feel fresher for longer. These may not always be available, but they're worth trying out if you can access them.
Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
It's also important to listen to your body. If you start feeling dizzy, extra tired, nauseous, or confused, those might be signs of heat exhaustion. Please don't ignore them. Tell someone right away and take a break in a cool place. Heat-related illnesses can sneak up on you quickly and can be dangerous if you don't act soon. It helps if everyone on the team knows what to watch for and what to do if someone starts showing symptoms.
Make Sure Your High-Vis Gear Fits Properly
Lastly, make sure your hi-vis gear fits well. Too-tight clothes can make you hotter, while oversized vests or shirts might flap around or get caught on equipment. A good fit makes you safer and helps your body breathe better in the heat.
Wearing custom-printed high-visibility apparel adds even more value. It allows you to outfit your team in gear that’s not just functional, but personalized with your company name, logo, or department ID—helping with crew identification, promoting your brand, and maintaining a professional appearance. When your team is both seen and recognized, you’re doubling down on visibility, accountability, and safety in hot weather working conditions.
Stay Safe, Stay Seen, and Stay Cool
Working outdoors in summer is no joke, especially when wearing safety gear. But with a few smart habits like choosing better fabrics, drinking plenty of water, avoiding peak heat hours, and knowing the signs of overheating, you can stay calm, visible, and most importantly, safe.
Summer may bring the heat, but it doesn't have to bring harm. A little planning and a lot of hydration go a long way.
Stay Safe and Beat the Heat with Hi-Viz.com
Don't let the summer heat put your crew at risk. At Hi-Viz.com, we offer a wide selection of breathable, lightweight high-visibility apparel designed to keep workers cool, comfortable, and compliant with ANSI standards. All our gear is built for performance, from mesh safety vests to moisture-wicking shirts. We also offer custom printing so you can add your company name, logo, or department ID for a professional, organized look.
Shop now and customize your summer safety gear today!