Beat The Heat Checklist

Summer can put extra strain on both facilities and the people who keep them running. From rooftops and boiler rooms to HVAC systems and outdoor work areas, having a heat preparedness plan in place can help reduce downtime, prevent injuries, and keep building occupants comfortable. Here’s a checklist of five ways you can help beat the heat, keep your people safe, and maintain operational continuity:

1. Review Emergency Response Plans

Make sure your team knows what to do if someone shows signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Emergency contacts, first aid supplies, communication tools, and clear response procedures should all be part of your summer readiness plan. Use ARC Facilities to organize, update, and share emergency plans and contacts from your mobile device.

2. Inspect HVAC Systems Early

Before temperatures spike, inspect air conditioning units, chillers, cooling towers, filters, thermostats, and ventilation systems. Preventive maintenance can help avoid costly breakdowns during the hottest days of the year.

3. Stock Up on Water and Electrolytes

Make sure technicians and maintenance staff have easy access to cool drinking water throughout the day. For longer shifts in high heat, electrolyte drinks can help replace what is lost through sweating. OSHA recommends drinking water regularly, even before workers feel thirsty.

4. Adjust Work Schedules

Whenever possible, schedule rooftop work, outdoor inspections, and heavy maintenance tasks during the early morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower. Reducing work during the hottest part of the day can lower the risk of heat stress.

5. Monitor High-Risk Areas

Keep a close eye on areas that naturally trap heat, such as rooftops, boiler rooms, warehouses, kitchens, and mechanical spaces. Use thermometers or heat monitoring devices to identify spaces where temperatures may become dangerous.