When temperatures rise and the sun burns, the rooftop workplace becomes a real heat trap. Roofers are particularly vulnerable, as they often work for hours in direct sunlight, on reflective materials, and without natural shade. It's not just about comfort, but above all about Occupational safety , performance and health. With the right Workwear , clever behavior and a little preparation, many problems can be avoided. Here are the top 10 tips from Roof PRO how to stay cool even in the heat – in both senses of the word.
1. Drink regularly and sufficiently – before you get thirsty
Sounds banal, but it is vital for survival: Anyone who does physical work sweats. In hot weather, the body loses up to 1.5 liters of fluid per hour. Drinking is not a luxury, but a duty. Don't wait to be thirsty – that is already a warning signal. Ideal are Water, spritzers or Electrolyte drinks . Avoid coffee, energy drinks, or cola – they are more likely to dehydrate than help.
Tip: Store a large water bottle in the shade and a small bottle within easy reach. Drink every 15-20 minutes.
2. Wear light and breathable work clothes
Dark clothing attracts heat. Modern workwear like the Workwear from Snickers relies on breathable fabrics and functional cuts. Special T-shirts with UV protection or mesh inserts ensure that your body stays cool even under stress "breathe" can. Pay attention to light, but robust work trousers , that won't make you sweat any more.
Good to know: Clothing with integrated UV protection is a real game changer in summer heat.
3. Always wear a beanie/tube scarf or a cap
The head is particularly sensitive to overheating. A sunstroke threatens sooner than expected – Dizziness, headaches or nausea are the first symptoms. A light hat, a straw hat or a beanie/tube scarf protects effectively, can absorb sweat and keep the head cool.
Extra tip: Cooling insoles or Wet wipes under the cap provide additional refreshment.
4. Start earlier and avoid the midday heat
The blazing midday sun between 12 and 3 p.m. is particularly critical for roofing work. If possible, plan your working hours so that you start early in the morning and the hottest part of the day for less stressful activities – e.g. sorting materials or storage work in the shade.
Danger: Anyone standing on the roof around midday will be exposed to strongest UV radiation – sunburn and heat stroke say hello.
5. Use sunscreen – even if you're nervous
Many craftsmen ignore this topic, but Sunscreen is a real lifesaver. UV radiation promotes skin cancer – and the risk is particularly high for roof workers. Use at least SPF 30, better 50, and wear them Apply generously to arms, neck, face and ears. Repeat the application every two hours. Particularly suitable are Sun sprays and Sun gels for athletes!!
Tip: Particularly suitable are Sun sprays and Sun gels for athletes!!
6. Know the symptoms of heat stroke and sunstroke
Knowledge saves lives. First warning signs are: Headache, dizziness, nausea, rapid heart rate, or hot, dry skin. Then immediately get off the roof, go into the shade, drink, cool down – and If in doubt, call a doctor. Heat stroke is a medical emergency!
Remember: If you recognize the symptoms, you can take countermeasures in time and prevent things from getting worse.
7. Take regular breaks – in the shade
Physical work in the sun placed a lot of strain on the body. Plan breaks consciously – and not just standing against the wall, but sitting or lying in the shade. Only then can the circulation recover. A wet hat or a A colder cloth on the neck also helps.
Tip: A mobile sun protection, like a gazebo or umbrella on the scaffolding, can work wonders.
Video: Scorching heat on the construction site? - Consider these 10 points.
8. Protect your eyes with sunglasses
Reflections on metal, glass or bitumen can cause permanent damage to the eyes. Wear a high-quality sunglasses with UV protection Or use visors with tinted lenses. This not only improves visibility but also protects against long-term vision problems.
Don't forget: Cheap glasses without UV protection are dangerous – they dilate the pupil without providing protection.
9. Use cooling vests and towels – the clever workwear extension
In addition to lighter workwear, there are smart products such as cooling vests, which cool the upper body through evaporative cooling. towels, which are previously immersed in water, are simple but effective helpers. They are ideal for the neck or under a helmet.
Market leaders such as Snickers Workwear offer innovative summer solutions – from ventilation jackets to cooling underwear.
10. Talk to your team about heat risks and look out for each other
No matter how well prepared you are, in extreme heat, the whole team needs to pull together. Talk openly about your well-being, Take turns regularly and watch for the first signs of overheating in colleagues. Occupational safety begins with mutual respect - #SafetyGoesFirst!
Golden rule: It’s better to ask too many questions "Are you doing well?" than once too little.
Conclusion: Staying cool is mandatory, not optional
Working on the roof is a challenge anyway – in the sun and heat it becomes an extreme physical effort. If you don’t take care of yourself, you risk more than just sunburn. That’s why clever planning, high-quality workwear (such as Snickers), sufficient water, sun protection and a good team Modern solutions such as breathable T-shirts, caps with UV protection and functional workwear help you get through the summer safely and healthily.
Because: A cool head on the roof is not only pleasant – it is vital.
