Summary: During the peak summer months, many workers throughout the country face various heat-related safety risks, such as heat-related illnesses (e.g., heat stress) - especially those who complete tasks outside or in non-air-conditioned spaces. We'll discuss some of the top risks top risks faced by employees working in the heat and what summer safety tips employers can implement to protect them.
Working in the Heat: Safety Tips for Outdoor Workers
Temperatures are rising across the country, which also means an increase in the risk of workers suffering from heat-related illnesses. Throughout the summer months, outdoor workers and workers in non-air-conditioned spaces across a variety of industries are often exposed to extreme heat and/or humidity that can lead to heat stress, exhaustion, heat stroke and even death. Thousands of workers nationwide can suffer from heat-related illnesses every year; however, the good news is that these conditions can often be avoided when the proper preventative steps are taken.
The Dangers of Heat Stress and Other Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat stress begins when high temperatures and/or humidity cause workers’ natural cooling mechanisms to become ineffective, and their core body temperature rises. A few of the most common signs of heat stress in workers include:
Heat stroke, the most severe form of heat-related illness, is a life-threatening emergency. It develops rapidly when the body’s cooling system begins to fail, especially when a person is dehydrated and cannot sweat enough to cool down effectively. This is why it’s so important that employers train workers and supervisors to ensure they understand the dangers of heat stress and how it can impact overall health and safety.
Even before heat stroke sets in, heat stress can cause fatigue, reduce alertness and muscular dexterity, and increase the likelihood of errors, all of which can lead to other workplace accidents.
Summer Safety Tips for Workers
Along with proper training on heat stress, there are additional measures employers can take to protect their employees from heat-related illnesses. First, managers and supervisors should be well-trained in recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses to ensure they can get help immediately should a dangerous situation occur. Additionally, the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends employers establish a prevention program that includes:
Developing and implementing an acclimatization plan
Acclimatization is defined as “the beneficial physiological adaptations that occur after gradual exposure to a hot environment.” Workers should gradually increase the time spent in heat and humidity over a two-week period. For new workers, exposure to heat should begin at approximately 20% on day one, increasing by another 20% each day.
Keeping workers hydrated
Provide ample amounts of water and fluids throughout an outdoor shift. Workers should drink small amounts of water throughout the day before thirst sets in. NIOSH recommends that even in moderately hot conditions in which there is a medium level of activity, workers consume one cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes.
Encouraging appropriate clothing
Workers should wear breathable, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing composed of material like cotton to keep them cool in the harsh summer sun. If possible, they should also wear wide-brimmed hats to block some of the sun’s rays from their heads and faces.
Keep in mind that protective clothing or personal protective equipment (PPE) may increase the risk of heat stress. Additionally, heat stress can affect workers indoors, where ambient outdoor temperatures and humidity may be present or even higher than outdoor levels.
Scheduling frequent breaks
Establish a work/rest schedule that allows workers to take regular breaks. Provide cool, shaded or air-conditioned areas for these breaks. Workers should also take meal breaks to replenish energy and electrolytes lost through sweating over the course of their shift.
Checking in on workers
Finally, supervisors and managers should monitor employees closely to quickly recognize if any individuals are suffering symptoms of heat-related illnesses. When necessary, provide prompt medical attention.
Additionally, monitor the weather reports daily and reschedule strenuous outdoor tasks to cooler parts of the day whenever possible. Strenuous work generates internal heat from muscular activity, increasing the overall heat load on the body. If work cannot be rescheduled, expectations for the physical activity of workers should be adjusted. Continue to evaluate work practices to minimize both the exertion and environmental heat.
Reduce Risk this Summer with Loss Control Services from AmTrust Financial
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Risk Control Department offers valuable
resources to create the most effective loss control program for the specific needs of our insureds,guidance for discussing heat stress prevention with employees.
Our goal is to help small businesses assess the conditions, practices, and processes of the workplace to help identify hazards and recommend strategies to help reduce, control or eliminate risks and losses. For more information, please
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This material is for informational purposes only and is not legal or business advice. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is appropriate or suitable for any specific business or legal purpose. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business and/or legal advisors. Coverages may vary by location. Contact your local RSM for more information.