The dog days of summer are upon us. A time when the days are hot, humid and tend to seem long. Especially right now because it’s also typically your busy season that we’re in the middle of.
You and your crews are busy fulfilling job tickets, digging up the ground, pushing through new conduit and everything else that comes with the busy construction season.
While it’s important to get the jobs done on time and safely, are you finding time for yourself and your team to recharge? Recharging your own batteries is important so you can make it through the rest of the construction season. Finding that time to reset and still get the work done as expected can be a tricky task to accomplish. Here are five simple ways you can try and do it.
1. MicroBreaks that Actually Happen
Instead of an informal “take a rest when you can,” make it a point to build in short 5 to 10 minute resets every few hours. Your crews will stay more productive when breaks are predictable. Take advantage of nearby shade and have water available for them and a place to sit. It’s a small thing, but it could make a big impact.
2. Rotating Job Assignments
If your company has cross-trained operators, this can be an easy thing to try to give your crews a recharge. Getting tired isn’t just physical, it can be repetitive too. Do you ever get tired doing the same job for hours and days and weeks? Rotate workers between more physically demanding jobs to lighter or more technical tasks throughout the day. It might not always be possible, but if it is, give it a try.
3. Recharge Stations On Site
Does your company have an extra trailer or truck on site? Set up an easy “resent zone” in one of the trucks or a trailer. Supply it with cold towels (especially on hot days), electrolyte drinks, cooling fans or maybe even a misting setup. It sounds basic, but giving the crew a fast way to cool down and improve energy and morale.
4. Decompression Time
Instead of running full speed until it’s quitting time, you and your team can build in a 15-minute wind-down period. Use this time for cleanup, organizing the tools or getting things set up for the next day. Not only will this help you mentally clock out from the long day you just hand, but it’ll get you a jump start on the next day and could result in reduced stress and mistakes.
5. Recognition Tied to Effort, Not Just Output
During the busy season, you and your crew might feel like machines some days, just cranking jobs out. A quick daily — or weekly — acknowledgment might go a long way. Bring in lunch, do small shoutouts or offer small incentives. These will help reset their mindset. Feeling seen is a powerful mental recharge, even if the workload doesn’t change.
WHAT HAS YOUR COMPANY DONE
Do you have tips or suggestions to help with crew burnout or making through the long summer workdays? Email me at editor@digdifferent.com with your ideas.
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