It’s officially that time of year — when one person sneezes in the office and suddenly everyone’s drinking tea and pretending it’s “just allergies.”

Between fall pollen, temperature swings, and the germs that seem to multiply faster than RFIs on a Friday afternoon, it’s no wonder this season hits hard. A little proactive care can go a long way toward keeping everyone healthy and jobs running smoothly.

Here are a few reminders that might sound basic — but they work:

  1. Check your air.
    If you haven’t changed the filters in your office or trailer since the summer rush, now’s the time. Dust, pollen, and mold are thriving right now. Cleaner air = fewer sniffles.
  2. Hydrate and fuel up.
    Cooler weather tricks people into skipping water. Big mistake. Dehydration makes you feel sluggish and more likely to get sick. Also — real meals, not just coffee and convenience store snacks.
  3. Get the flu shot.
    And yes, maybe that COVID booster, too. Pharmacies make it easy. The few minutes it takes can save your team from days of downtime later.
  4. Keep the germs at bay.
    Wipe down shared spaces, especially trucks and tools. Keep sanitizer handy. And if someone’s under the weather — seriously — let them stay home. It’s not a badge of honor to tough it out and infect the crew.
  5. Don’t forget allergies.
    Ragweed and mold are still hanging around. For anyone working outside, a mask can help cut down exposure (and sneezing fits that scare the new guy).
  6. Rest and reset.
    Fall is busy for everyone. But burning out your immune system helps no one. A decent night’s sleep, real downtime, and some sunlight during the day make a difference.

Let’s keep everyone healthy, productive, and a little less congested this season.