Summer is one of the most critical seasons for those working outdoors, especially in construction areas, quarries, farms and nurseries, as high temperatures and prolonged exposure to the sun significantly increase health risks. Knowing the rules, updating documents (such as SOPs and DVRs) and complying with the latest ordinances is essential to protect workers and ensure the continuity of safe working activities.
The risks of heat on construction sites
Working outdoors during the summer, such as on construction and road construction sites or in quarries and farms, poses significant health risks: workers who are exposed to the sun for long hours and who use equipment that increases physical exertion may experience heat stroke, dehydration and drops in pressure, increasing the likelihood of work-related accidents. It is therefore essential to train workers in recognising the symptoms of discomfort, both their own and their colleagues', to promote frequent breaks and to encourage proper hydration.
Heat ordinance: what the new rules will provide in 2025
In 2025, many Italian regions have issued heat ordinances to protect workers in construction areas, quarries, farms and nurseries. The ordinances include the suspension of work during the hottest hours (usually between 12 noon and 5 p.m., but the time may vary depending on the region), the obligation to ensure easily accessible shady spots and fresh water always available. Some regions have also introduced frequent checks by inspection bodies to ensure that the new safety measures are respected. This ordinance will be in force from 2 July until 15 September 2025; violation of it will result in penalties, as provided for in Article 650 of the Criminal Code.
Currently (summer 2025), anti-heat ordinances are already in force in several Italian regions, while other regions are in the process of adopting them. The regions where the ordinances are active include (the list may change):
- Emilia-Romagna.
- Latium.
- Tuscany.
- Apulia.
- Sicily.
- Sardinia.
- Campania.
- Lombardy.
- Veneto.
The key role of the supervisor in worker safety
The person in charge is the figure who supervises and oversees the work activity. He is responsible for the application of the measures indicated in the DVR (Risk Assessment Document) and in the POS (Operational Safety Plan). The person in charge must constantly monitor the weather conditions and adapt the organisation of activities to reduce the risks for workers, planning the heaviest work in the coolest hours and checking that breaks are respected as required by the ordinance.
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Update the SOP to protect workers
The Operational Safety Plan (OSP) must include specific measures against heat, such as hydration plans, shifts and emergency procedures. It is important to indicate preventive actions, personal protective equipment to be provided and how to report any illnesses. A well-drafted OSP document also helps to coordinate activities between several companies on the site, ensuring integrated risk management.
The importance of the DVR and the RLS
The DVR (Risk Assessment Document) is the main tool for identifying, analysing and preventing risks on construction sites, including those related to extreme temperatures during the summer months. The DVR must be updated regularly, especially in the presence of changing environmental conditions, such as heat waves, and must contain practical indications on the prevention and protection measures to be taken.
The RLS (Workers' Safety Representative) is a key figure in occupational health and safety management: he or she actively participates in risk assessment, is consulted during the drafting or updating of the DVR and can propose improvement measures. In the context of outdoor work during the summer, the RLS plays a strategic role in reporting critical situations, monitoring the implementation of measures provided for by regional ordinances, and collaborating with the employer and the supervisor to promote a culture of prevention.
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Safety as social responsibility
Protecting the health of workers on construction or road construction sites, as well as in quarries, farms and nurseries, is not only a regulatory obligation, but also an ethical value and a sign of social responsibility. Investing in occupational safety means valuing people and reducing the costs of accidents and work stoppages. Prevention thus becomes a strategic factor for the continuity and quality of work.
