MacroAir Fans

How to Stay Cool in a Warehouse

Written by Joie Jockheck | (February 6, 2023)

Let’s face it, with every year that passes, temperatures seem to be getting warmer and warmer during the summer months. With that, the temperatures within our workplaces have been creeping up as well. Working in a warehouse can be tough, especially during the summer months when extreme heat can make it difficult to stay cool and focused on the job. Warehouse spaces, without proper air conditioning or proper ventilation, can become hot environments that can raise body temperature, leading to heat exhaustion, heat stress, and even heat stroke. To help warehouse employees stay cool and comfortable while working, we have put together 5 key tips that are easy to implement into the workday.

Effects of Overheating in a Warehouse

Extremely hot temperatures while working in a warehouse can be flat out dangerous. Hot temperatures can lead to heat stroke, dehydration, fatigue, and an increased chance of injury. They can also cause a  lack of focus, leading to mistakes and lower productivity and efficiency. It is important to protect your health and well-being by staying cool while working.

Please note that different people have different tolerance levels for temperatures. Within the first few days in a hot environment, your body will go through the process of acclimatization. This means your body will be working to build up a tolerance to the heat over time. If this does not happen, it can potentially be fatal.

5 Tips to Stay Cool in a Warehouse

The optimal temperature for a warehouse is between 68-76°F. At these temperatures, you should be comfortable and able to focus without feeling too hot. Temperatures above 90°F can be dangerous. Follow the tips below to stay cool and comfortable while working in a warehouse environment - especially if temps are on the higher side of this optimal range.

Tip 1: Drink Cold Water

Make sure to drink plenty of cold water throughout the day. 

Why It Matters

In a hot warehouse, drinking water will help regulate your body temperature, keep you hydrated, increase sweat (which is a good thing), increase blood circulation, and regulate internal body temperature. 

Make It Happen

Bring a water bottle and aim to drink consistently throughout the day. Avoid waiting until you feel thirsty to drink water, as thirst is a sign of dehydration. Proper hydration is essential for regulating body temperature, improving blood circulation, and reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses. It can also improve energy levels and cognitive function, making it easier to stay productive and focused. By staying hydrated, you’ll feel more refreshed on the job.

Tip 2: Take Breaks in Cool Areas

Take short breaks throughout the day to cool down.

Why It Matters

In a hot warehouse, taking breaks in cool areas will keep your body temperature regulated, help you recharge and refresh, improve your mental focus, reduce your stress, and increase your physical performance. It will improve overall health and well-being, making it easier to stay cool and productive while working.

Make It Happen

If possible, find a cool, air-conditioned space to take a break. If air-conditioning is not available, find a shaded area with good ventilation to rest in. Taking breaks in cooler areas will help regulate body temperature and prevent heat exhaustion.

Tip 3: Wear Breathable Clothing

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing while working in a hot warehouse.

Why It Matters

Wearing breathable clothing can help regulate body temperature, improve comfort, reduce moisture buildup, increase hygiene, and improve overall health and well-being while working in a hot environment.

Make It Happen

Avoid wearing tight or heavy clothing, as this can trap heat and make it difficult to stay cool. Opt for light-colored clothing, as darker colors tend to attract and retain heat. Breathable clothing will help keep you cool and comfortable, allowing you to focus on the job at hand.

Tip 4: Open the Doors

Make sure to keep the doors open for proper ventilation and to create a cross breeze.

Why It Matters

Opening doors can help create a cross breeze and prevent hot air from being trapped inside the warehouse. Keeping the doors open will also help regulate the temperature inside the warehouse, making it a cooler environment for all employees.

This is even more effective if there are large ceiling fans present in the warehouse. Make sure the large ceiling fans are running to maximize the effect of the open doors and the cross breeze. MacroAir’s large high volume low speed (HVLS) ceiling fans can help cool the air in hot weather, or run in reverse to warm the air in cold weather. Ultimately, the goal is to maintain a temperature that is comfortable for employees and allows them to work safely and efficiently.

Make It Happen

Assess the regulations in your warehouse before opening the doors. In addition to doors, open windows when it is permitted. Add large ceiling fans to the warehouse or make recommendations to add ceiling fans. That will improve air circulation and ventilation to regulate body temperatures, increase natural light, reduce dependence on air conditioning, and improve your mood and productivity while working.

Tip 5: Store Warehouse Supplies Properly

Make sure to store warehouse supplies in a cool and well-ventilated area to help improve air circulation and regulate temperatures inside the warehouse.

Why It Matters

Proper storage of supplies can help reduce clutter and improve air circulation, which can help regulate body temperature and reduce heat stress. It can also help increase natural light and reduce the need for artificial lighting, which can help reduce energy usage and lower cooling costs. Improved organization and efficiency is another benefit, along with reduced heat generation from stored materials. This could include any flammable liquids or electronic items.

Make It Happen

Avoid storing supplies in direct sunlight or near heat sources. Keeping supplies in a cool environment to prevent overheating and potential injuries. Proper storage of supplies will also help regulate the temperature inside the warehouse, making it a cooler environment for all employees.

What’s Next

Staying cool in a warehouse during hot summer months can be a challenge, but by following these 5 key tips, warehouse employees can remain comfortable and focused on the job. From drinking cold water and taking breaks in cool areas, to wearing breathable clothing and using screen doors, these tips are easy to follow and cost-effective. To help warehouse employees stay cool while working, we have created a downloadable PDF that includes all 5 tips along with easy ways to apply them while on the job. This downloadable should be used as a quick reference to help warehouse employees stay cool, comfortable, and productive on the job.

 

Related Questions...

How do you stay cool in a hot warehouse?

Stay cool in a hot warehouse by wearing light, breathable clothing, drinking water, taking breaks in a cooler area, using fans, and using cooling towels.

How can heat be reduced in a warehouse?

Heat can be reduced in a warehouse by using fans, having good ventilation, using reflective roofing, having a high-tech insulation system, and providing shade for workers.

How do employees keep their warehouse cool?

Employees can keep their warehouse cool by drinking water, wearing light and breathable clothing, taking breaks in cooler areas, using fans, and using cooling towels.

How do construction workers stay cool in the heat?

Construction workers stay cool in the heat by wearing light and breathable clothing, drinking water, taking breaks in a shaded or cooler area, using fans, and wearing a hat or head cover.

What temperature is too hot for a warehouse?

A temperature of over 90°F is considered too hot for a warehouse, as it can cause heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses.

How do you beat the heat at work?

Beat the heat at work by drinking water, wearing light and breathable clothing, taking breaks in a shaded or cooler area, using fans, and using cooling towels.

Why do warehouses not have air conditioning?

Warehouses may not have air conditioning due to cost, lack of resources, or because air conditioning may not be practical for a large open space.

Why are warehouses so hot?

Warehouses can be hot due to a lack of ventilation, poor insulation, exposure to direct sunlight, and the use of heat-generating equipment and machinery.

How do you circulate air in a warehouse?

Circulate air in a warehouse by using fans, opening windows and doors, and installing vents or ducts to move air through the space.

How can I keep my warehouse cool without AC?

Keep a warehouse cool without AC by using fans, having good ventilation, using reflective roofing, having a high-tech insulation system, and providing shade for workers.

How do you cool a large shop without air conditioning?

Cool a large shop without air conditioning by using ceiling fans, having good ventilation, using reflective roofing, having a high-tech insulation system, and providing shade for workers.

How do you get rid of humidity in a warehouse?

Get rid of humidity in a warehouse by using dehumidifiers, having good ventilation, and ensuring that water is not accumulating in the warehouse.

How does a factory reduce temperature?

A factory can reduce temperature by using fans, having good ventilation, using reflective roofing, having a high-tech insulation system, and providing shade for workers.

What are the signs of heat exhaustion?

The signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, headache, nausea, dizziness, and fainting.

What is the best clothes for hot weather?

The best clothes for hot weather are lightweight, breathable, and light-colored clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton or linen.

Is Gatorade good for construction workers?

Gatorade is good for construction workers because it helps replace electrolytes lost due to sweating in hot weather, which helps prevent dehydration.

How do you cool down in a warehouse?

To cool down in a warehouse, employees should drink cold water, take breaks in cooler areas, and use fans or air-conditioning units when available.

How can I stay cool in a warehouse without AC?

Staying cool in a warehouse without AC can be achieved by drinking cold water, taking breaks in cooler areas, and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing.

How do warehouses keep you cool in the heat?

Warehouses can keep employees cool by providing air-conditioned break rooms, ceiling fans, and shade structures.

How can I stop myself from overheating at work?

Employees can prevent overheating at work by staying hydrated, taking breaks in cooler areas, and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing.

How hot is too hot to work in a warehouse?

A warehouse temperature of 90°F or higher is considered too hot to work in safely.

How do factory workers stay cool?

Factory workers can stay cool by drinking cold water, taking frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing.

How can I survive a hot day without AC?

To survive a hot day without AC, employees should stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in cooler areas, and wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

How do you cool down fast at work?

Employees can cool down fast at work by drinking cold water, taking breaks in cooler areas, and using fans or air-conditioning units when available.

How can I cool my body down at work?

To cool the body down at work, employees should drink cold water, take breaks in cooler areas, and use fans or air-conditioning units when available.

Is it cold working in a warehouse?

It can be hot and humid in a warehouse due to the lack of air conditioning and ventilation.

How do you beat the heat in a factory?

Factory workers can beat the heat by staying hydrated, taking frequent breaks in cooler areas, and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing.