Summer on a worksite isn't just uncomfortable. Long hours in the sun, heavy gear and little shade can push your body past what it can cool on its own. Here's how to spot heat stress early, what actually helps, and where a fan vest fits into your summer kit.
Why heat stress is a real workplace risk
Your body cools itself mainly by sweating. When the air is hot, humid or still, or when you're wearing layers and PPE, that sweat can't evaporate fast enough. Body temperature starts to climb, and that's when concentration slips, reactions slow and accidents become more likely.
Managing heat-related risks is an important part of workplace safety. This includes planning physically demanding tasks during cooler hours, providing access to shade and drinking water, and making sure workers take regular breaks. Choosing the right workwear can also improve comfort, but it should always be used alongside proper heat safety measures.
Know the warning signs
Heat exhaustion
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness or headache
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
- Feeling weak or unusually tired
Stop work, move somewhere cool, drink water and rest.
Heat stroke
- Confusion or slurred speech
- Hot skin, with or without sweating
- Fainting or collapse
- Seizures
This is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately (000 in Australia or 111 in New Zealand) and begin cooling the person straight away.
The basics come first
- Drink water regularly, before you feel thirsty, not just during breaks.
- Plan the heavy work for early morning or later afternoon where you can.
- Take breaks in the shade and give new or returning workers time to adjust to the heat.
- Watch your mates. People with heat stress often don't notice it in themselves.
- Choose lighter, breathable workwear and gear that moves air around your body.
How a fan vest helps
A fan vest has small motor fans built into the lower back. They pull outside air in and push it up through the space between the vest and your body, then out at the neck and armholes. That constant airflow helps sweat evaporate, which is how your body cools down in the first place.
The KameLo Fan Vest is built around that airflow:
- Mesh lining on the back stops the fabric sticking to sweaty skin, so air can move freely.
- Half-neck collar directs the airflow up past your neck, one of the places you feel the heat most.
- Banded armholes hold the air in long enough to circulate rather than escaping straight away.
- Three fan speeds on a simple controller, so you can turn it up during heavy work and down when you're taking a break.
- Detachable fans can be removed before washing the vest according to its care instructions.
KameLo ICE FAN VEST
Fan powered air-flow cooling vest with detachable fans for hot days outdoors.
- 3-speed fan control
- Runs on a compatible USB power bank
- Navy, Ice Grey, Hi-Vis Orange and Hi-Vis Yellow
- Sizes available from L to 10XL (subject to availability)
Powering it on site
The fans run on a compatible USB power bank. Simply connect the power bank, place it in the designated pocket and adjust the airflow to your preferred setting. Run time varies depending on your power bank's capacity, and carrying a spare is an easy way to cover long shifts. Battery options may vary depending on your location.
Which colour suits your job?
Ice Grey / Navy
A clean, everyday look that works over a work shirt or casual clothes. A zip-up pocket keeps your phone and keys secure, and a reflective logo on the chest and a reflective patch on the back add visibility in low light.
Good for: gardening, repairs, workshop and craft work, golf caddying.
Hi-Vis Orange / Yellow
Bright orange and yellow with reflective tape across the chest, waist, shoulders and back for better visibility around machinery, vehicles and early-morning or night work. Three external pockets keep your gear in place.
Good for: construction sites, roadside work, outdoor maintenance.
See all colours and sizes and choose your options on the product page.
FAQ
How do I wash the fan vest?
Unplug the power bank and detach the fans first. The vest itself can then be washed. The fans and cable should never get wet.
What size should I get?
The vest runs large, so check the size chart on the product page. As a guide, XL fits S–M, 2XL fits M–L and 4XL fits XL–2XL.
What should I wear under it?
A light t-shirt or work shirt works best. Thinner, breathable fabric lets the air reach your skin and helps sweat evaporate.
Do I need a special battery?
No. The fans run on a compatible USB power bank, and a bigger capacity simply means longer run time. Battery options may vary depending on your location.
Can I wear the hi-vis version instead of my site hi-vis?
It depends on your site. Some workplaces require high-visibility garments that meet specific safety standards. Always check your workplace's PPE requirements before using a fan vest as your primary hi-vis garment.
Does a fan vest replace water breaks and shade?
No. It makes working in the heat more comfortable, but staying hydrated, resting in the shade and pacing your work are still the most important ways to prevent heat illness.
Get ready for summer before the heat arrives.
Shop the KameLo Fan Vest