Month: June 2025

Summertime, and the living is easy—but it brings unique risks to linemen. As summer temperatures soar, working outdoors in or around heavy equipment like bucket trucks and digger derricks becomes significantly more hazardous. Heat stress, UV exposure and equipment-related risks all increase during the summer months.

Whether you’re operating machinery, performing maintenance or supervising a crew, summer safety is everyone’s responsibility. Below, check out safety tips from Altec Sentry to keep your operators and equipment working safely this summer.

Heat Stress: Recognize, Prevent, Respond

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. Key symptoms to watch for include:

• Heavy sweating
• Fatigue or dizziness
• Headache or nausea
• Rapid heartbeat or confusion
• Hot, dry skin (in cases of heat stroke)

Preventive Measures

• Hydration: Drink water every 15–20 minutes. DO NOT wait until you’re thirsty. Wearing rubber gloves, sleeves, and FR clothing in the heat is no joke!
• Rest Breaks: Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas regularly, especially during peak temperature hours (1 p.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Proper Clothing: Wear breathable, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothes (as much as you can given other safety considerations).
• Acclimatization: New-to-the-heat workers should gradually increase exposure over 1–2 weeks.
• Buddy System: Encourage team members to monitor each other for signs of heat-related illness.

If a team member shows signs of heat stroke:

• Call 911 immediately.
• Move them to a cooler area.
• Remove excess clothing.
• Apply cool water to their skin and use fans if available.

Equipment Safety in the Heat

Hydraulics & Fluid Checks

• High temperatures can affect hydraulic fluid viscosity. Check fluid levels and condition daily.
• Inspect for leaks and ensure all fittings and hoses are secure.

Tires and Rubber Components

• Heat can increase tire pressure. Check inflation daily to prevent blowouts.
• UV radiation can degrade rubber hoses and seals. Inspect for cracking or brittleness.
  Boom and Aerial Components
• Verify dielectric testing is up-to-date for insulating booms.

Operator Comfort and Focus

Fatigue from heat can reduce situational awareness which is a key factor in utility and construction accidents. Employers should:

• Rotate duties to limit continuous exposure.
• Install shade canopies or cooling vests for extended jobs.
• Encourage mental check-ins to ensure alertness when performing aerial work.

Fire Prevention and Fuel Safety

With dry conditions and heat, fire hazards increase. To mitigate this risk:

• Avoid refueling when equipment is hot.
• Store fuel and flammable liquids in approved containers, away from direct sunlight.
• Clear brush and dry debris from around parked equipment.

Storms and Lightning: Summer’s Unpredictable Threat

Summer also brings sudden storms and lightning.

• Cease operations immediately if thunder is heard. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last clap before resuming.
• Lower all booms and secure equipment during storms.
• Never seek shelter under or near a bucket truck or digger derrick.
• Know your unit’s max allowable wind speed for operation.

Daily Safety Checklist Additions for Summer

In addition to standard pre-operational checks, add these checks in hot weather:

• Hydration supplies available (water coolers, electrolyte packets)
• Shade structures or cooling areas available
• Heat illness signs posted
• Sun protection (sunscreen, hats, UV sleeves)
• First aid kit includes cold packs and electrolyte tablets

Operating bucket trucks and digger derricks safely during the summer means planning ahead, staying alert, and watching out for one another. Heat doesn’t just zap energy; it can create deadly conditions. Stay cool, stay hydrated and stay safe!