Heat Safety for Workers

Heat Safety for Workers

As temperatures rise, so do the risks of heat-related illnesses and injuries, posing significant threats to worker safety and productivity. Without proper precautions, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can not only lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, but also raises the risks of on-the-job injuries, heart attacks, and negative birth outcomes.

While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is in the process of developing specific heat safety requirements, employers must currently uphold their duty to protect workers under the General Duty Clause. Implementing measures such as providing access to shade, rest breaks, hydration stations and training on recognizing and responding to heat-related hazards are crucial steps employers can take to safeguard their workers from the adverse effects of excessive heat.

Employees: How to Stay Heat Safe 

Working in high temperatures can impact your productivity, ability to think clearly and carries significant risks, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, increased accidents, heart attacks and kidney failure. It is the responsibility of all employees to know how to stay safe on the job, including knowing their rights to a safe workplace.

Here are 11 steps, based on OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines, that outdoor workers can follow to protect themselves:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink water frequently, even if you're not feeling thirsty. Hydration is crucial in preventing heat-related illnesses. OSHA recommends drinking one cup (8 oz) every 20 minutes while working in the heat and, if you’re exerting a lot of energy in the heat for 2+ hours add an electrolyte-containing beverage every 4th drink
2. Take Breaks: Schedule regular breaks in shaded or cool areas. Resting helps the body recover and reduces the risk of heat stress. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) provides guidance for a recommended rest break schedule here
3. Wear Appropriate Clothing: When possible, wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses provide additional protection
4. Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF to exposed skin to protect against harmful UV rays. Reapply as needed, especially after sweating
5. Acclimate Gradually: New workers or those returning after time away should gradually increase workloads and take more frequent breaks to acclimate to the heat 
6. Buddy System: Work in pairs or groups so employees can monitor each other for signs of heat-related illnesses. Prompt action can make a significant difference 
7. Know the Signs: Learn the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Early recognition is vital for prompt treatment
8. Training: Employers should provide training to workers about the hazards of heat exposure and the preventive measures to be taken. This education is crucial for awareness
9. Emergency Response: Know the emergency procedures in case a coworker shows signs of heat stress. Quick action can save lives 
10. Report Hazards: Encourage a culture of reporting unsafe conditions. If you notice a lack of shade, inadequate water supply, or other hazards, report it to your supervisor or employer
11. Speak Up: If you feel unwell due to the heat, communicate it to your supervisor. Your well-being is a priority, and employers should take immediate action to ensure your safety. By following these steps, outdoor workers can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and work safely even in hot conditions. Employers play a crucial role in creating a safe environment, but it's also essential for workers to be proactive in protecting themselves

Learn more about heat safety protocols, acclimatization guidelines and recognizing heat-related illnesses.

Stay safe, stay informed and let's work together to protect every worker in Miami-Dade County from the hazards of extreme heat. Complaints can be reported by calling OSHA at 800- 321-OSHA or filed online.

Employers: How to Keep Your Employees Safe

By maintaining a proactive approach, employers can create a safer and more productive work environment, protect their employees from heat-related illnesses, and ensure compliance with regulations and standards. Although OSHA does not have specific regulations on heat, it does provide guidelines on heat safety and requires employers to protect their workers from known hazards, like extreme heat, under the General Duty Clause.

The following are some helpful tips that can support you in protecting your employees.

• Assess Heat Hazards: Identify areas of extreme heat exposure, considering factors like temperature, exposure, humidity, access to water and shade
• Develop a Safety Plan: Create a detailed plan covering training, acclimatization, work/rest schedules, shade and hydration
• Train Employees: Educate workers on heat-related illnesses, signs of heat stress and appropriate first aid measures. If you need some resources, please refer to the list below
• Implement Controls: Use ventilation systems indoors and shading structures outdoors
• Promote Hydration: Provide cool, accessible drinking water, encouraging regular intake. For workers with more strenuous work and longer exposure times, also provide electrolyte containing beverages
• Schedule Breaks: Establish shaded or cooled rest areas and limit strenuous activities during peak heat hours
• Provide PPE: Supply light clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen for UV protection
• Monitor Employees: Implement a buddy system and monitor for signs of heat stress
• Acclimatization: Gradually introduce new employees to hot environments, closely monitoring their adjustment
• Emergency Response: Set clear protocols for heat-related emergencies and ensure all employees know the steps to take
• Review Protocols: Regularly evaluate safety measures, updating plans based on feedback, lessons learned and weather changes
• Offer Support: Provide educational resources, hold safety meetings and encourage open communication for employee concerns and suggestions

• OSHA Heat Safety Training Guide 
• Online: OSHA Heat Stress Training