This year’s summer has arrived, bringing scorching temperatures and potentially hazardous weather conditions along with it. With 2023 predicted to be one of the hottest summers on record, heat safety on the golf course is paramount this season! Scott Corwin, Director of Golf Course & Landscape Maintenance at Timber Pines in Florida, shares his insights with us on how to keep your crew safe during dangerously hot conditions.
1. WEATHER AND TEMPERATURE MONITORING
Make sure you keep an eye on weather conditions and temperature changes during the summer months. This way, you can schedule your crew’s tasks for the morning so that they’re doing the most strenuous tasks when it’s cooler (and safer!)
2. INCLEMENT WEATHER PROTOCOL
Keeping in contact is essential during dangerous weather conditions. At Timber Pines, Corwin has a clear line of communication with his crew and uses radios to quickly bring them back to safety when inclement weather approaches.
Scott Corwin, Golf Safety Member and Director of Golf Course & Landscape Maintenance at Timber Pines golf course.
3. HEAT SAFETY EDUCATION
Education is the foundation of heat safety. Corwin believes in regular safety training sessions to raise awareness of heat stress and teach your crew how to recognize its symptoms. Encouraging team members to report any signs of heat stress is also vital in preventing severe incidents.
4. ACCESS TO APPROPRIATE PPE
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is non-negotiable when it comes to heat safety. Providing your team with proper gear is crucial for their protection. For example, Corwin ensures his staff has access to hats and uniform options that provide SPF while they work.
5. MAINTAINING A CONSISTENT ROUTINE
As always, consistency is key! Corwin stresses the importance of integrating safety protocols into the daily routine of your crew, making it a natural part of their work regimen. Regular reminders and training sessions reinforce the safety culture and keep everyone vigilant.
It’s crucial to keep your cool as temperatures rise this summer! To read Scott Corwin’s full insights and learn more about heat safety on the golf course, take a look at our in-depth article on the GCSAA site.
