Working on a construction site comes with its own issues because employees are out in all types of weather. One problem that construction supervisors and contractors have to deal with is how to provide a source of warmth for employees who are working out in the cold. Ensuring some measure of comfort in a job helps avoid accidents and can help get the work done faster. Working your way into a contractor job can be helped by taking contractor classes, so you can become licensed in your state. Learning five ways to keep your jobsite heated this winter can help keep employees more comfortable and on the job.
Providing a heat source at a construction site in cold weather is necessary.
Portable Air Heaters
Blow heaters come in all different sizes and fuel types that can be utilized both outdoors or indoors. The type that will work for each project depends on the type of work location. Choosing the right one for a construction project to provide a heat source for employees and work efficiently is an important decision.
Electric Heaters
Electric heaters are easy to install and useful in smaller areas such as renovation projects. This type of heater can also be equipped with a connecting tubing that will distribute the hot air. Although electric heaters have the advantage of being smell and exhaust free, it is an expensive heater to operate and not practical for outdoors.
Direct Fired Heaters
Direct Fired Heaters work by forcing air through the flame. This type of heater is commonly used on outdoor construction sites because of its simple transportation to where it is needed and its efficiency, and not all units require electricity. Other benefits include easy maintenance and lack of a need for supervision due to safety features along with built-in thermostats that automatically control temperature. One drawback is that this type of heater cannot be used indoors without adequate ventilation.
Deciding on what type of heat to use depends on the construction site.
Torpedo Heaters
This type of heater, also called a salamander, is common at construction sites because of its easy portability and because they come with a choice of natural gas, kerosene or propane as the heating fuel. While providing spot relief in areas, torpedo heaters are noisy and produce fumes and odor, particularly when used with kerosene. Using them on an indoor construction side can leave unwanted residue in addition. If left unvented, carbon monoxide can build up and be hazardous to workers.
Radiant Heaters
This type of heater delivers heat that warms objects instead of the air so it is a good choice for construction sites. It offers easy portability, quiet and clean operation and can be moved to change the direction without a need to move a tank. Heat from this type of unit is reliable, and it works well to warm up a construction area.
Just as having the proper equipment to provide warmth for employees on a construction site is important, so it having the proper education. After attending contractor license school, continuing education is required to keep your license renewed. PDH Contractors Academy offers continuing contractor classes to meet your licensing requirements and is approved in a number of states. Browse courses by state to find what you need to keep your career on track.