Occupational heat stress
Workplaces across Canada face a growing challenge during warmer months and in hot environments. Occupational heat stress can pose serious threats to both employee wellbeing and organizational safety. However, with proactive measures, these risks can be effectively managed.
This blogpost explores what occupational heat stress is, the warning signs, strategies to prevent heat stress from causing heat-related illnesses, and the importance of integrating heat stress prevention into workplace health and safety programs.
What is occupational heat stress?
“Occupational heat stress is the net heat load to which a worker may be exposed from the combined contributions of metabolic heat, environmental factors, and clothing requirements. As heat stress approaches human tolerance limits, further increases may lead to unacceptable heat strain and the possibility of heat-related disorders.”
Everyone tolerates bodily stress caused by heat differently, but prolonged exposure can lead to heat-related illnesses and disorders.
Common industries affected by heat stress include construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and food services. Workers exposed to high temperatures, direct sunlight, or radiant heat from equipment are also at risk.
Heat stress happens when three primary factors combine
- Environmental heat: Working outdoors on a hot day or indoors with heat-generating equipment.
- Physical activity levels: Heavy lifting, physical exertion, or operating machinery in hot environments.
- Clothing and PPE: Safety gear or heavy clothing can trap heat or prevent air circulation.
Left unaddressed, occupational heat stress can progress to more severe problems, including heat-related illnesses and disorders, such as heat exhaustion or, in critical cases, heat stroke.
Addressing occupational heat stress in the workplace
Implementing effective measures to prevent heat-related illnesses and disorders is essential for safeguarding workers in hot workplace environments. By prioritizing proactive strategies, employers can ensure the safety, wellbeing, and productivity of their teams and demonstrate a commitment to maintaining optimal working conditions.
Inspect workplaces for ventilation and circulation
- Limit radiant heat from equipment by using reflective barriers or insulation.
- Create shaded or air-conditioned rest areas.
- Use fans and proper ventilation to circulate air. Ensure HVAC systems function optimally.
Adjust and prepare work schedules where possible
- Plan heavy physical tasks for cooler parts of the day (early mornings or nights).
- Regularly rotate workers through physically demanding tasks.
- Increase frequency and duration of rest breaks based on temperature.
Hydration and dietary considerations
- Provide cool drinking water.
- Encourage employees to drink one cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes to stay hydrated.
- Consider electrolyte-replenishing beverages when sweating is excessive.
- Avoid caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate the body.
Educate your workforce
- Ensure all employees, including supervisors, receive training to recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
- Establish a system to monitor co-workers for signs of heat stress.
- Implement an emergency response plan for heat-related incidents.
Offer proper attire and PPE
- Supply breathable, light-coloured clothing when possible.
- Provide and promote the use of cooling vests or personal heat-protecting gear if necessary.
- Evaluate alternative PPE options to reduce heat stress while maintaining safety compliance
Addressing heat stress is critical to occupational health and safety
Addressing heat stress is not just about safeguarding employees. It’s about protecting the health and productivity of your entire organization. Here’s why prevention is essential.
Employee health and morale
Occupational heat stress can take a serious toll on physical and mental health. Persistent heat-related illnesses may lead to missed workdays and declining morale among employees.
Legal responsibility
Employers in Canada have a legal obligation under occupational health and safety legislation to ensure safe working conditions, which includes mitigating heat stress risks. Failure to comply could lead to fines or legal action.
Increased productivity
A workforce that regularly experiences heat-related illnesses often works less efficiently. Keeping employees cool and hydrated minimizes errors and maintains optimal productivity.
Cost savings
Heat-related illnesses and injuries can lead to medical expenses, injury claims, and compensation costs, making prevention strategies proven, cost-effective long-term solutions.
Focus on your team’s wellbeing while we help manage their health and safety
Our HR and health and safety experts have supported thousands of organizations with developing targeted, compliant solutions that prioritize employee safety and satisfaction. From conducting onsite safety audits to designing customized hot weather safety plans, our services and support transform time-consuming safety tasks into seamlessly integrated best practices.
Don’t sweat the heat this summer. Connect with us to see how our risk assessment, online training, and onsite support can help your organization prioritize safety while meeting the latest legislative requirements.