Summer Survival Guide for Grooms

When the temperatures rise, most grooms naturally focus on keeping their horses cool, comfortable and safe.

But while we're busy monitoring water intake, adjusting turnout schedules and checking for signs of heat stress in horses, it's easy to forget about our own wellbeing.

Working outdoors, carrying out physically demanding tasks and spending long hours on your feet can make summer one of the most challenging times of year for grooms. Looking after yourself isn't a luxury – it's essential for your health, safety and performance at work.

International dressage groom Kate shares her experiences of working through hot summers, along with practical advice to help you stay safe and comfortable.

Plan Your Day Around the Heat

It isn't always possible to avoid working during the hottest part of the day, but where you can, try to schedule physically demanding tasks for the cooler hours of the morning or evening.

Manual jobs such as mucking out, fencing repairs, arena maintenance or field work can often be completed before temperatures peak.

Kate explains:

"In one of my previous jobs, we started earlier in the summer to work the horses before it became too hot and then took a longer break in the middle of the day. It worked really well for both the horses and the staff."

If your workplace allows flexibility, consider discussing adjusted working hours during periods of extreme heat.

Know Your Rights: Working in Hot Weather

Unlike cold weather, there is no maximum legal workplace temperature in the UK. However, employers have a legal duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees.

This means employers should:

• Assess the risks associated with working in hot conditions.
• Provide access to drinking water.
• Allow suitable rest breaks.
• Consider adapting work schedules where possible.
• Provide appropriate facilities for cooling down and resting.

If temperatures become excessive and working conditions are affecting your health or safety, speak with your employer. Raising concerns early can help identify practical solutions before problems arise.

Dress for the Conditions

When temperatures soar, clothing choices can make a huge difference.

If your workplace permits it, lightweight shorts and breathable tops can help you stay cooler. However, comfort should never come at the expense of safety.

Always dress appropriately for the task:

• Wear close-fitting clothing around machinery.
• Avoid riding in shorts.
• Use gloves where necessary.
• Wear a hat or helmet when required.
• Choose breathable fabrics that wick moisture away from the skin.

And remember: horses and flip-flops are never a good combination.

Footwear Matters

When it's hot, it can be tempting to swap your yard boots for something lighter. However, appropriate footwear remains one of the most important pieces of personal protective equipment.

Good summer yard footwear should:

• Protect your toes from being stepped on.
• Provide grip on wet or slippery surfaces.
• Support your feet during long days.
• Allow airflow where possible.

If your boots become uncomfortable in the heat, consider lighter-weight safety boots designed for warmer conditions. Moisture-wicking socks can also help reduce discomfort and prevent blisters.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is one of the biggest contributors to fatigue, headaches and reduced concentration during hot weather.

By the time you feel thirsty, you may already be becoming dehydrated.

Kate says:

"I'm really bad at not drinking enough, but when I do stay hydrated I find I don't get that mid-afternoon energy crash."

Simple ways to increase your fluid intake include:

• Carrying a reusable water bottle.
• Keeping water stations around the yard.
• Drinking little and often throughout the day.
• Flavouring water with squash or sugar-free flavourings if you struggle with plain water.
• Eating water-rich foods such as melon, cucumber and oranges.

While tea and coffee can still be enjoyed in moderation, they shouldn't replace regular water intake.

Fuel Your Body

When it's hot, many people lose their appetite, but skipping meals can leave you feeling exhausted.

Try to choose lighter meals and snacks that provide steady energy throughout the day:

• Fruit
• Yoghurt
• Wraps
• Pasta salads
• Nuts
• Cereal bars

Eating little and often can help maintain energy levels without leaving you feeling sluggish.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

Sunburn can happen surprisingly quickly, even on cloudy days.

Protect your skin by:

• Applying sunscreen with at least SPF30.
• Reapplying every two hours, particularly if sweating heavily.
• Wearing sunglasses with UV protection.
• Using hats or caps when not riding.
• Covering up during prolonged exposure where practical.

Kate admits that uneven tan lines come with the territory:

"Unfortunately bad tan lines seem to come free with every horse job!"

But while tan lines may be unavoidable, sun damage isn't.

Keep sunscreen in your locker, car or tack room so it's always available when you need it.

Recognise the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Grooms are often good at spotting when a horse isn't quite right. We need to be equally aware of our own warning signs.

Watch out for:

• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Excessive sweating
• Nausea
• Muscle cramps
• Weakness
• Difficulty concentrating

If you notice these symptoms:

1. Stop work if possible.
2. Move somewhere cool.
3. Drink water.
4. Remove unnecessary layers.
5. Ask for help if symptoms worsen.

Heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.

Take Breaks and Cool Down

During busy periods it's tempting to push through, but short breaks can actually improve productivity and reduce mistakes.

Where possible:

• Sit in the shade.
• Use a fan.
• Cool your wrists and neck with cold water.
• Put your feet in a bucket of cool water.
• Take a few minutes away from physical work.

Even short cooling breaks can make a significant difference.

Look Out for Each Other

One of the strengths of the grooming community is teamwork.

Check in with colleagues regularly during hot weather:

• Remind each other to drink.
• Share sunscreen.
• Cover for someone who needs a quick break.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion.

Sometimes a bit of humour goes a long way too. Whether it's an ice cream run at lunchtime or a quick water fight after the horses are finished, small moments can help boost morale on the hottest days.

Enjoy the Summer Safely

Summer is one of the busiest and most rewarding times of year in the equestrian industry. While we can't always avoid working in the heat, taking sensible precautions can help protect your health and wellbeing.

Remember: looking after yourself is not taking time away from your horses. A healthy, hydrated and well-rested groom is better equipped to provide excellent care.

Stay safe, stay cool and enjoy the sunshine while it lasts! Before we know it, we'll all be talking about winter and complaining about our chilblains again.

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