What is Heat Stress?

Heat stress occurs when the body is unable to cool itself down effectively. This can happen due to high temperatures, humidity, physical exertion, and even certain clothing choices. Some symptoms of heat stress include:

• A high body temperature (above 40°C)
• A fast pulse
• Headache or dizziness
• Passing out/unconsciousness
• Weakness, confusion, or acting strangely
• Hot, dry, red skin (classic heat stroke) or profusely sweating (exertional heat stroke)

When the body overheats, it can lead to a range of health problems, including:

• Heat exhaustion
• Heat stroke
• Heat rash
• Heat cramps
• Fainting

Causes of Heat Stress

Heat stress can be exacerbated by several factors:

• Working outdoors in direct sunlight during summer months.
• Workplaces with humidity levels exceeding 50%.
• Industries such as foundries, smelters, chemical plants, bakeries, and commercial kitchens.
• Deep mines, especially those with geothermal gradients and equipment radiating heat.

The Impact on Workers

Heat stress doesn't just make workers uncomfortable; it can significantly impact their safety and performance. Here's how:

• Workers suffering from heat stress are more prone to errors in judgment and accidents.
• Excessive sweating leads to dehydration and fatigue, hindering productivity.
• Heat exhaustion can impair coordination and balance, increasing the risk of falls and other injuries.
• Heat stress can lead to heat stroke, requiring hospitalisation and lost time while they recuperate.

Your Role in Prevention

The responsibility for preventing heat stress falls squarely on your shoulders as the employer. Here are some examples of what you can do to keep your workplace cool and your employees safe:

• Develop a Heat Stress Prevention Program
• Monitor temperatures and humidity
• Encourage frequent water breaks
• Implement a gradual acclimatization program
• Adjust work schedules to avoid peak heat hours
• Encourage workers to wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and breathable clothing.
• Schedule strenuous tasks to cooler times of the day.
• Provide shade and air conditioning
• Regularly train employees on heat stress recognition, prevention strategies, and emergency procedures.
• Implement a buddy system for mutual monitoring.
• Assess job demands and implement protocols for hot days.

Creating a Heat Stress Prevention Program/Plan

Employers should develop a comprehensive heat stress control plan tailored to their workplace environment, which should include the following:

• Consultation: Involve your health and safety committees or representatives in plan development.
• Guidelines: Follow industry standards and local regulations for heat stress management.
• Emergency Preparedness: Establish procedures for responding to heat-related illnesses promptly.
• For seasonal heat, create a simplified plan for use between May 1 and September 30. Implement it when the humidex reaches 35 or the temperature exceeds 30°C with a humidex of 40. Also consider using the plan during heat waves or smog alerts.

The Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW) has unveiled a comprehensive Heat Stress Toolkit aimed at helping workers mitigate the risks associated with heat stress.

Try the Heat Stress Toolkit

Remember, heat stress prevention isn't a one-time effort. By proactively implementing these measures and fostering a culture of heat safety awareness, you can protect your employees' health, well-being, and productivity throughout the summer season.

HR Covered is the largest Canadian-owned HR provider in the country, and a proud affinity partner for all things HR. As our member, you can now register for your complimentary access to over 1000+ HR documents and other benefits. Learn more here.