Heat Stress

Protecting Workers from Heat Stress

Heat Illness

Exposure to heat can cause illness and death. The most serious heat illness is heat stroke. Other heat illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash, should also be avoided.

There are precautions your employer should take any time temperatures are high and the job involves physical work.

Risk Factors for Heat Illness

High temperature and humidity, direct sun exposure, no breeze or wind
Low liquid intake
Heavy physical labor
Waterproof clothing
No recent exposure to hot workplaces

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

Headache, dizziness, or fainting
Weakness and wet skin
Irritability or confusion
Thirst, nausea, or vomiting

Symptoms of Heat Stroke

May be confused, unable to think clearly, pass out, collapse, or have seizures (fits)
May stop sweating

To Prevent Heat Illness,Your Employer Should

Establish a complete heat illness prevention program.
Provide training about the hazards leading to heat stress and how to prevent them.
Provide a lot of cool water to workers close to the work area. At least one pint of water per hour is needed.
Modify work schedules and arrange frequent rest periods with water breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
Gradually increase workloads and allow
more frequent breaks for workers new
to the heat or those that have been away from work to adapt to working in the heat (acclimatization).
Routinely check workers who are at risk of heat stress due to protective clothing and high temperature.
Consider protective clothing that provides cooling.

HowYou Can ProtectYourself and Others

Know signs/symptoms of heat illnesses; monitor yourself; use a buddy system.
Block out direct sun and other heat sources.
Drink plenty of fluids. Drink often and BEFORE you are thirsty. Drink water every 15 minutes.
Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
Wear lightweight, light colored, loose- fitting clothes.