Last week, CargoForwarder Global took a look at the negative impacts of periods of intense heat on aircraft, shipments, and – last, but certainly not least – staff. This week, we examine the various measures that can and should be in place to mitigate heat impact on all these operations. After all, the aviation’s credo of Safety First can only be maintained if employees, fleet and cargo are protected and performing at their best.
There are plenty of measures that can and should be implemented during periods of extreme heat to ensure that aircraft, shipments, and staff are all kept safe, and operations continue to run efficiently. Let’s start with a focus on aircraft safety. As pointed out last week, high temperatures reduce air density, which in turn decreases lift. Thus, aircraft operations need to be adjusted accordingly. This may mean limiting cargo loads to reduce the aircraft’s take-off weight and ensure a safer take-off. Longer take-off runs may also be necessary due to reduced lift in hot conditions. Lastly, because extreme heat can stress aircraft engines, plan for more regular engine performance monitoring to check for overheating and allow for adequate cooling during operations. Also, conduct preventive maintenance to ensure the engines are always operating within safe parameters.
Ground control to Major Tom
Similar rules apply for ground equipment. Whenever not in use, Ground Support Equipment (GSE), should be kept out of direct sunlight wherever possible – or at least covered in thermal blankets where shade is not available. High temperatures otherwise can cause Lithium-ion batteries to overheat, or pressure-buildups in gasoline or diesel fuel systems, and all vehicles with rubber tires can be at risk of heat-induced tire blowouts, which should preferably be avoided when it comes to heavy equipment such as pushback or fuel trucks. Whenever possible, the maintenance and refueling of all GSE should be scheduled for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, also to reduce the strain on staff. During regular maintenance, particular attention should be paid to cooling systems, batteries, and tires, given their vulnerability to heat-related damage.
Keep the cargo safe and limit exposure
For highly sensitive cargo such as live animals, pharmaceuticals, dangerous goods and perishables, there are already a number of mitigation measures in place to protect their integrity – these include temperature-controlled storage areas (equipped with reliable cooling systems and backup generators to maintain consistent temperatures even during power cuts), special containers with built-in temperature regulation and control, temperature sensors delivering real-time information, thermal or reflective covers, special temperature-controlled airside vehicles, and limited ramp exposure during loading/unloading. The latter depends on well-coordinated teamwork between ground handlers and cargo handlers is crucial to ensure quick transfers. Once in the aircraft, Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) or Ground Power Units (GPUs) can be used to maintain appropriate air conditioning in the cargo holds while on the ground. Some airlines, where the flexibility of their freighter planning allows, will ensure that aircraft due to transport animals, for example, are parked as close to the warehouse as possible, and scheduled to loading/departure during the night or cooler parts of the day.
All cargo departing or heading to regions subjected to high temperatures benefit from the heat-resistant, quality packaging, and should be stored in shaded areas or temporary shelters during transit, before being loaded as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Hydration, clothing…
Heat stress prevention among staff is an absolute must, since safe operations are otherwise at risk. There are plenty of ways in which an employer can make a difference. For instance, ensuring that employees have easy access to drinking water. Hydration stations should be set up near work areas and staff encouraged to ensure regular water intake to prevent heat-related illnesses. Likewise, air conditioning systems should be installed where possible, and workers allowed frequent, regular cooling breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas to recover from heat exposure – breaks are particularly necessary during peak heat hours.
Uniforms, too, play an important role in supporting staff in combating the heat. Their work clothes should be made from lightweight, breathable materials that reflect sunlight and allow sweat to evaporate. PPE designed for extreme heat conditions, such as cooling vests, can also help manage body temperature. When working outside, staff should be encouraged to use sunscreen and wear hats to protect against direct sunlight.
Training and the right working conditions
It is important that employees are trained on the effects of heat stress and about heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. They should know how to recognize these symptoms in themselves and others and understand the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if needed. Companies should establish clear emergency procedures for dealing with heat-related incidents, including quick access to medical care and first aid. Staff should be instructed on how to contact medical personnel and what first aid they can administer while they wait for the medical staff to arrive.
Regarding working conditions – aside from appropriate workwear and air-conditioned facilities, companies can also adjust the length and contents of shifts, so that more strenuous activities occur during cooler parts of the day. This and possibly shorter shifts can help reduce the risk of heat-related injuries. Similarly, staff should be rotated between outdoor and indoor tasks to limit their exposure to extreme heat. This reduces the amount of time any one worker spends in potentially hazardous conditions.
Talk to the customer!
In all cases where measures may restrict or change operations in such a way that customers are affected, ensure that you are transparent in explaining the reasons why, being proactive in your communication and offering clear advance planning wherever possible. Always keep customers informed about potential delays or risks due to extreme heat and work with them to adjust shipping plans, such as opting for premium services that offer better protection against heat.
Be prepared
As discussed last week, extreme heat significantly impacts air cargo operations by reducing aircraft performance, compromising cargo integrity, and increasing operational costs. Yet, with careful planning and the adoption of advanced technologies and strategies, these challenges can be mitigated. Adjusting flight schedules, enhancing ground handling procedures, and using specialized equipment all help to safeguard people, shipments, and equipment during periods of extreme heat.
