4 Tips to Beat the Heat at Work

This year, June 20 is the first day of summer. For some people, summer means beaches, no school, BBQs or vacation trips. For others, it means starting a summer job. Whatever your summer plans may be, because the first day of summer has the most daylight hours of the entire year, it is a good time to remember how to take care of yourself in the sunshine and heat. Today, we’re refreshing our tips on how to beat the sun if you’re going to be outside, especially if you’re thinking about or already working in a non-office job.

1. Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated on especially hot days. This means drinking plenty of water or other fluids that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks, even before you start your outside work, as well as during the day.
    
2. Stay protected: Just like drinking water before starting your work, it’s important to apply sunscreen at least an hour before you go out so that it has time to take effect. Keep applying sunscreen throughout the day if you are able. Also, look for shaded areas. If you cannot work in a shaded area, find one or an air-conditioned area for your breaks. Less exposure to the sun gives your body time to recuperate from the heat.
    
3. Use your accommodations: Extra time in the sun and heat can wear your body down. If you are able, ask for extra breaks to make sure you are rested, well hydrated, and that you have enough sunscreen.
   If you need help asking for accommodations, a Ticket to Work service provider, such as an Employment Network(EN), can help you with the resources you need to talk to your employer.
    
4. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can include several symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, slurred speech, thirst, rapid heart rate, nausea and vomiting. Make sure to monitor your symptoms while you are working to determine when you need breaks. And NEVER skip a break.

Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the service and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Outdoor jobs can be rewarding and educational, but during the summer months they can also be draining if you’re not prepared. If you’re interested in an outdoor job, your Ticket Program service provider can help answer questions about working outdoors, accommodations you may consider and provide tips for how to stay safe and productive at work.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar.