As temperatures rise, heat-related illnesses become a serious jobsite hazard. Working outdoors or in hot environments can quickly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke, so every worker should recognize the signs of heat stress and take steps to protect themselves and coworkers.
What Are the Common Heat-Related Illnesses and What Do You Do?
Match your response to the severity of the illness.
- Heat cramps show up as muscle spasms or cramps, heavy sweating, and fatigue. Move to a cool area, drink water or electrolyte beverages, and rest.
- Heat exhaustion brings heavy sweating, weakness or dizziness, headache, nausea, and cool, pale, clammy skin. Move to shade or air conditioning, loosen clothing, drink cool water, and notify a supervisor.
- Heat stroke is a medical emergency, with high body temperature, confusion or loss of consciousness, hot dry or excessively sweaty skin, and a rapid pulse. Call 911 immediately, move the worker to a cool area, and cool them with water or ice packs until help arrives.
How Do You Prevent Heat Stress?
Stay ahead of the heat with water, breaks, and the right clothing.
- Drink water frequently and do not wait until you are thirsty
- Aim for water breaks every 15 to 20 minutes
- Avoid excessive caffeine or energy drinks
- Use shaded or cooled rest areas
- Increase breaks during high temperatures or heavy labor
- Wear light-colored, breathable clothing
- Use hats, sunscreen, and UV protection
- Watch out for coworkers, since heat illness can happen quickly, and use the buddy system and report symptoms immediately
