Staying cool: how Kentucky’s outdoor workers handle the heat

Waste collectors, construction crews, and others must take extra precautions in the heat

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — The high temperatures sweeping across the Commonwealth this week are taking a toll, especially on those working outside.

Kentuckians are doing their best to stay cool as hot and humid weather settles over the Bluegrass. While many are cranking up the air conditioning, outdoor workers like Luke Robinson with Rumpke have to find other ways to beat the heat.

“Come prepared, I’ve seen that too often, come with a couple water bottles and a Gatorade, you’re not going to make it,” Robinson said. “Definitely invest in a good backpack or large icebox to stock with drinks and food, keep yourself well hydrated,” said Robinson.

Robinson said he keeps airflow open and carries a cooler with him throughout the day. He stressed that taking breaks in this kind of weather is not just allowed, it’s encouraged.

Staying hydrated is key, but Robinson said it’s also critical to pay attention to how your body feels while on the job. When he’s faced heat-related illness, the warning signs were clear.

“You stop sweating… that’s kind of a tell-tale sign. You’ll feel very fatigued, and that’s where you find a shaded area, and step out of the truck, sit in the shade of it and cool off,” Robinson said. “You can get a splitting migraine as well, that’s another one. You’ll stop sweating, you’ll start to get lethargic,” said Robinson.

Robinson said they typically start early in the day to get a head start before the sun comes up. He also shared a simple way people can help outdoor workers like him during these extreme temperatures.

“A thank you goes a long way. If you got a cold water, that’s amazing. Like I said, you can save some of the guys out here, they just ran out of water, I’ve had it happen. Bring a cold water, a cute kid runs out, gets excited about the trash truck—it will make your day a lot better,” Robinson said.