Heat Stress Overview
Working in hot environments puts stress on your body's cooling system. When steps are not taken to mitigate the risk, it can lead to heat-related illness, disability, and even death. This can happen to anyone.
Heat stress can get worse when in combination with:
- Physical work
- Loss of fluids
- Fatigue
- A pre-existing medical condition
Causes of Heat Stress
Factors that can cause heat stress include:
- Working in direct sunlight in the summer months
- Humidity in the workplace (greater than 50% relative humidity)
- Working with equipment that radiates heat
Tips for Workers
- Wear light and breathable summer clothing if applicable
- Cover your head to prevent exposure to direct sunlight
- Wear reflective clothing in a high radiant-heat situation
- Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion/ heat stroke in yourself and your coworkers
- Stay hydrated by frequently drinking water
- Take breaks in shaded or cooler locations
Resource Posters
These posters can be printed to display in your work environment or used for information purposes: