LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — With scorching temperatures gripping the Midwest, construction workers across Mid-Michigan are adapting to brutal outdoor conditions to stay safe and productive.

As the heat wave intensifies, those laboring outdoors in cities like Lansing and East Lansing are at increased risk of heat-related illnesses. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, urban construction zones can be up to 7 degrees hotter than surrounding areas due to concrete and asphalt absorbing and radiating heat — a phenomenon known as the urban heat island effect.

“Water, Gatorade, sometimes some fruit, whatever that’s helpful. Y’know, taking air breaks in the air conditioning…” said Sam Bottom, a construction worker stationed on Michigan Avenue. “…10-15 minute break maybe every hour, depending on how you feel, you know what I’m saying. Typically, if you feel you know you need to take a break, take a break, we’re out here to work, we’re not out here to get injured…”

Bottom said his crew relies on regular check-ins and hydration to manage the heat. “We make sure everyone’s got water and sometimes we use electrolyte packs,” he explained. “Better safe than sorry.”

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends that employers provide cool drinking water and encourages workers to consume 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes, regardless of thirst. For construction teams like Bottom’s, hydration is non-negotiable.

Heat illness can strike quickly. OSHA and local health authorities urge vigilance for symptoms of heat exhaustion, including paleness, nausea, dizziness, and profuse sweating, or heat stroke, marked by confusion, hot and dry skin, and loss of consciousness.

In response, some contractors are adjusting schedules, starting work earlier in the morning and ending before the hottest parts of the day. Others have installed cooling tents, fans, and shaded rest areas to reduce the risk of overheating.

Employers are also encouraging workers to buddy up and monitor each other. “Sometimes guys don’t realize how hard it’s hitting them until someone else points it out,” said Bottom. “We’re all looking out for each other.”

With more heat waves projected this summer, safety experts say that creating a culture of prevention and communication on job sites will be key to avoiding serious illness — or worse.

Originally reported by Zack Priehs in WLNS.