New OSHA-Approved App Can Help Workers Who Work In The Heat

Working outdoors in the summer months is not easy.

"Going out every day, being in the sun, it can wear on you," said Trent Summers with Elite Lawn Care.

A new app is aiming to help workers -- and anyone else -- who plans to spend time in the extreme heat.

Before starting his career, Summers said he played sports outdoors, which has acclimated him to being in the heat.

"I knew about hydration at a very early age, so it prepared me for this," said Summers.

If he doesn't take the right measures, Summers said it can be dangerous, so he stays hydrated. 

"Keeping liquid IV’s on the truck, it saved me quite a few times with that, staying hydrated," Summers said.  

The new app developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration shows recommendations specific to heat index as well as risk levels to help protect employees from heat-related illness.

The app also has a list of symptoms to help users identify heat stroke symptoms available in both English and Spanish.

OSHA said it is the employer's job to protect workers.

The app, which is available for iPhone and Android devices, has a direct line to contact OSHA if an issue comes arises.

"We move our start times up to 7 a.m. instead of 8 a.m.,” said Jeff Gazaway with Elite Lawn Care said. “That allows are guys to get out there get done before the heat of the day when 3 o'clock hits.”

If you would like to learn more about the app, click here.