Roofers among workers sweating out Sask. heat wave

Those sitting in air-conditioned offices Friday during a 28 C day might want to give thought to outdoor workers.

Roofing is one of the hottest jobs – at least, temperature-wise – in the summer months.

Jeff Charlebois, the owner of Wilderness Roofing, has been working throughout the season in Saskatoon.

“The problem with roofing in the heat is you get stuck to the roof,” Charlebois explained. “You can’t work in certain temperatures especially on steeper roofs because you tend to slide.”

That’s why Charlebois said his crew usually takes a break from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“I saw a guy once get his shoes stuck on the roof due to heat,” he said. “He didn’t want to make more of a mess on the roof, so he just walked down in his bare feet.”

Charlebois has been busier as of late due to recent hail storms in Saskatoon.

“It’s been a lot of 14 to 16 hour days for me,” he said.

People spending time outdoors in the sun and heat are encouraged to take frequent 15-20 minute breaks in the shade and replenish fluids often.

Well you sit in your air office Eli Temple and his boss Jeff from Wilderness Roof Rescue are sweating in 30 degrees @CKOMNews #yxe pic.twitter.com/dBVGJhqj2G

— JT Marshall (@jtmarshallCKOM) July 28, 2017