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Tips to Keep Your Tech Safe in the Sun and Heat
August 7, 2023
For those working outdoors, sun exposure is a workplace hazard. According to Sun Safety at Work Canada (SSAWC), the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause:
- Sunburn, premature skin aging, eye damage, cancer, and other health conditions,
- Heat stress, which occurs when the body loses the ability to self-regulate its temperature.
These issues are preventable when a sun safety program is integrated into a worksite’s overall health and safety plan. The SSAWC has resources available to help you develop and implement a sun safety program.
The sun and heat can also negatively affect your tech devices – such as reducing performance, draining battery charges, damaging internal/external components, and decreasing overall lifespans.
This is especially problematic when rugged devices (which are specially designed to operate in harsh environments) aren’t being used.
Here are some general tips to help you keep your tablet, mobile phone, and other devices safe while working in the sun and heat:
- Make sure your device’s operating system and work-related software are kept up to date. This helps ensure everything runs as efficiently as possible.
- Charge your device’s battery before heading out and unplug it as soon as it’s done charging. Overcharging can cause overheating.
- Ensure your device isn’t left out in direct sunlight – and don’t leave it in a hot vehicle or any place that isn’t temperature controlled.
- Limit a device’s use to only work-related tasks and use a power-saving mode to help maintain battery efficiency.
- When you’re in the field, look for a shaded area to use your device. This can also help you see the device’s screen more clearly.
- A protective case made from plastic or metal might cause heat build-up, so consider removing it when it’s safe to do so.
- While you need to stay hydrated, be sure to keep your device away from water bottles and other sources of water and liquids.
- Office tech is also susceptible to sun and heat damage. Keep them out of the sun and make sure there’s adequate room and airflow for vents and fans to work properly.
- Consult your device’s user manual or contact their customer support for specific information and best practices.
Safeguarding your tech devices from the sun and heat can help them operate effectively and reliably, while preventing unnecessary performance issues and potential damage.
Want to learn more? Contact us today using the form below.
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Source:
Sun Safety at Work Canada. (n/d, retrieved July 27, 2023). What is Sun Safety?
