Landscaping crews work in full sun, move between sites and often have no fixed shade, so heat safety has to travel with the truck: cool water for every worker, portable shade, scheduled rest breaks, early start times, acclimatization for new hires and a crew lead who knows the signs of heat illness and when to call 911.
This page is part of ETC’s Arizona heat illness resources.
Why landscaping crews face extra heat risk
Landscaping is mobile work in full sun. Crews move site to site, there is rarely fixed shade, and chemical PPE for spraying adds heat. The controls have to travel with the crew.
The heat kit on every truck
Stock each truck with cool drinking water for the whole crew, electrolytes per your company policy, a portable shade canopy, cooling towels and a first aid kit. If it is not on the truck, it is not on the jobsite.
Scheduling around the heat
Start early, order the route so the hardest or most exposed work is done before the afternoon peak, and build in work-rest cycles that lengthen as the heat climbs.
Acclimatization for new and returning workers
New hires and workers back from time off are at the highest risk. Ease them in over about a week of gradually increasing exposure, and watch them closely at first.
What the crew lead watches for
The crew lead is the first line of defense. Train them to spot heat illness early and to act. For the signs and first aid, see heat exhaustion vs heat stroke.
Rules that apply
Arizona has no heat standard yet, but ADOSH can cite heat hazards under the general duty clause (A.R.S. 23-403), and landscaping contractors with City of Phoenix contracts fall under the city’s heat plan requirements.
A simple written heat plan for a small business
A small crew does not need a thick binder, just a clear, written routine. Use the heat illness prevention plan template, or ask ETC for heat illness prevention consulting.
FAQs
How much water should landscapers drink?
Follow CDC NIOSH guidance: frequent small amounts of cool water across the shift, rather than large amounts at once.
Do small landscaping companies need a written heat plan?
A written plan is best practice and is required for City of Phoenix contract work. Even a one-page routine protects your crew and your business.
What time should crews stop in the summer?
Shift work to the cooler hours and use heat-index triggers to slow down or stop in the afternoon peak.
Does chemical PPE raise heat risk?
Yes. PPE for spraying traps heat, so workers in PPE need more frequent breaks and closer watching.
ETC writes heat plans for Arizona outdoor employers and teaches first aid on-site. We also provide first aid, CPR and AED training for your team.
Download the heat plan template to protect your crew.
Call (602) 923-9673