Human Resources 101

Tips for working safely in the heat

With hot temperatures across the province, precautions should be taken when working in the heat. Heat stress can strike workers unexpectedly and in extreme cases can be fatal.

Signs that a worker may be suffering from heat stress include nausea/vomiting, dizziness, slurred speech, and hot, dry skin.

Employers, supervisors and co-workers should be aware of factors that may contribute to a person’s heat stress, such as:

• air temperature
• humidity
• radiant heat
• air or wind speed
• physical activity
• clothing.

Other factors that may affect a person’s ability to work in the heat include age, health status, level of fitness, body weight, level of hydration, and use of prescription and non-prescription drugs.

How hot a person feels can be controlled to some extent. Lower the temperature/humidity with air conditioning or a good ventilation system; increase air speed by using fans or blowers; wear clothing that allows sweat to evaporate easily; wear sunglasses and sunscreen to reduce sun exposure as required.

Steps can be taken to prevent heat related problems:

• take time to adjust to the heat
• drink plenty of fluids at regular intervals
• schedule the work in the coolest part of the day or have workers do less physically intense activities
• try to work in the shade
• take regular breaks in a cool place
• avoid alcohol and caffeine.

Employers and workers are responsible for ensuring the health and safety of their staff and co-workers. For more information on working safely in hot conditions, visit: www.worksafely.org, or call 1-866-415-8690 toll-free. In addition, the bulletin Working in the Heat is available at http://employment.alberta.ca/documents/WHS/WHS-PUB_mg022.pdf (PDF)