When it comes to working on federal construction projects, the expectations are high—and for good reason. Heat safety is one of many critical concerns on these jobsites, which represent significant investments by the U.S. government and often involve infrastructure that keeps communities functioning and people safe. And with great responsibility comes great oversight. From EM 385-1-1 safety standards to regular inspections from USACE Safety Officers and Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs), federal jobsites operate under a unique and demanding set of rules.

But no matter how stringent the regulation or how seasoned the crew, there’s one challenge that continues to catch teams off guard year after year: the heat.The Federal Difference—and the Summer Challenge

Federal jobs differ from commercial ones in more ways than paperwork. Federal contracts require strict adherence to safety standards like EM 385-1-1 and OSHA 1926. These guidelines aren’t suggestions—they’re contractually required. That means every heat safety violation, every overlooked rest break, and every case of heat illness has ripple effects beyond just the health of one worker. It can impact project timelines, contractor ratings, and even future bid competitiveness.

Summer brings predictable heat—but that doesn’t mean every team is prepared. In fact, many contractors fail to plan adequately for seasonal conditions. The result? Reduced productivity, serious safety incidents, and a damaged reputation with federal oversight bodies.

And that’s not just bad for business—it’s potentially career-limiting. On federal jobs, safety performance directly influences CPARS ratings (Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System), which are used to evaluate and compare contractors when awarding future work. A poor safety record tied to heat-related incidents can be the deciding factor in losing out on the next major contract.

Understanding the Risks: Heat Illness on the Job

Heat stress isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. It shows up in several ways:

• Heat Exhaustion: Look for heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, dizziness, and headaches.
• Heat Stroke: This is a medical emergency. Symptoms include confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and a core temperature exceeding 103°F.

Workers are especially at risk when performing physical tasks in direct sunlight, confined spaces, or while wearing full PPE—like respirators, long sleeves, hard hats, and more. Many federal projects require PPE regardless of the temperature, meaning teams need to be proactive about heat safety. Add in remote job locations without access to basic utilities, or compressed project timelines, and you’ve got a recipe for serious risk if heat is not properly managed.

Best Practices That Make a Real Difference

Let’s face it—federal jobsites are complex. But when it comes to managing heat, the solutions don’t have to be.

1. Smart Planning with the Heat Index in Mind

Before each shift, supervisors should check the NOAA heat index and incorporate those readings into daily planning. Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) should be updated with the appropriate risk levels (low/moderate/high/extreme), and work/rest cycles should follow EM 385-1-1 Table 3-3.

2. Hydration Is Non-Negotiable

Workers should have access to at least one quart of water per hour. That’s not a guideline—it’s a standard. Supplementing with electrolyte drinks or tablets is also key when exertion is high or shifts are long.

3. Rest, Rotation, and Relief

Heat breaks shouldn’t slow a project down—they should be built into the schedule. Stagger shifts, rotate teams, and ensure cooling spaces like shaded tents, AC trailers, or misting fans are readily available.

4. PPE That Works With You—Not Against You

Swap out heavy gear for lighter, moisture-wicking options and cooling vests when possible. Teach crews to recognize when their PPE might be contributing to heat stress and encourage speaking up.

Training, Documentation & Leadership Accountability

Preventing heat illness requires more than equipment and water coolers—it requires a culture of safety.

• Training: Heat Illness Prevention Training (HIPT) isn’t optional. Both OSHA and EM 385-1-1 require it. These sessions should cover how to identify symptoms, proper hydration and rest habits, and how to respond to an emergency. And it shouldn’t be a one-time event—toolbox talks during peak summer weeks can save lives.
• Documentation: Make sure heat risk is clearly listed in Activity Hazard Analyses (AHAs), especially when temps exceed 85°F. Update them based on forecasts, not just after an incident.
• Enforcement: Site Safety and Health Officers (SSHOs), foremen, and superintendents need to monitor for symptoms and intervene early. Safety doesn’t happen by chance—it happens by leadership.
• Emergency Readiness: Every jobsite should have a clear Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for heat illness. Ice chests, cooling packs, radios, and transportation plans can make the difference between recovery and tragedy.

It’s About More Than Compliance

Yes, following heat safety protocols keeps you in compliance. Yes, it helps protect your CPARS score and future contracts. But at the end of the day, it’s about protecting people—your crew, your team, your family on the jobsite. No milestone is worth pushing a worker past their limits in the summer heat.

Federal jobs demand the best from contractors—and when temperatures rise, that includes your commitment to safety. Let’s not wait until a heat incident makes the point for us. Let’s lead with preparation, compassion, and accountability.

Because mission-critical work deserves mission-level care.