Our weather has been unpredictable but one thing we can be sure of: this summer will be hot. Here are some tips to prevent heat illness provided by OSHA:

Heat Illness Prevention

Employers:

Develop a Heat Illness Prevention Plan

Are your workers exposed to high temperatures, either indoors or outside? Use these resources to develop a heat illness prevention program:

• When heat hazards are present, plan ahead to protect workers.
• Understand heat hazards in your workplace and calculate heat stress.
• Protect new workers
• Get guidance on engineering controls, work practices, and PPE
• Remember water, rest, and shade

Workers:

Tips for preventing heat illness

Heat-related illnesses can be prevented.

• Hydrate before, during and after work. Drink 1 cup of cool water every 20 minutes even if you aren’t thirsty. For longer jobs, drinks with electrolytes are best. Avoid energy drinks and alcohol.
• Find shade or a cool area for rest breaks that allow your body to recover.
• Dress for the heat. A hat and light-colored, loose-fitting (where allowed), breathable clothing is ideal.
• When wearing a face covering, change it if it becomes wet or soiled. Check on others verbally often.
• Not everyone tolerates heat the same way. Understand personal risk factors.

Know the signs of heat illness and how to respond

Abnormal thinking or behavior, slurred speech, seizures, or loss of consciousness are signs of a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately, cool the worker with water or ice, and stay with them until help arrives.

• Heat illness can cause:
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Weakness or dizziness
  • Heavy sweating or hot, dry skin
  • Elevated body temperature
  • Thirst
  • Decreased urine output
• If you spot someone experiencing the signs above, take action:
  • Give them water to drink
  • Move them to a cooler area
  • Cool them with water, ice, or a fan
  • Remove unnecessary clothing
  • Do not leave them alone
  • If in doubt, call 911 or seek medical care

U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration
200 Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20210
1-800-321-OSHA
1-800-321-6742
www.osha.gov