Kansas work crews push through heat wave to complete road work projects

TOPEKA ( KSNT ) – Workers are braving the heat to get their jobs done in northeast Kansas as temperatures skyrocket.

Despite intense heat across much of Kansas, work must continue on various projects outside in the waning days of summer. Precautions are being taken though to ensure these work crews are safe amid the current heat wave.

The U.S. Department of Labor ( DOL ) announced in July a proposal that requires employers to make a heat injury prevention plan . It focuses on mandatory rest and water breaks. While this proposal is still under discussion, temperatures remain high.

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is already implementing many of these practices to help protect its work crews while also keeping up with productivity.

“We actually get more work done by providing those breaks and letting people get rejuvenated instead of just getting out there and be dragging,” said David Studebaker with KDOT. “We all get that way, once you get exhausted, you’re exhausted we try not to get to that point.”

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ) recently began conducting safety inspections. It has conducted more than 5,000 checks since April 2022.

The National Weather Service ( NWS ) issued an excessive heat advisory for northeast Kansas which is in effect until 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024. Keeping pets and children safe by not leaving them inside hot vehicles during this time is important as temperatures can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.

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