Outdoor Heat Illness Prevention Reminder

Heat-related deaths are increasing, and according to the California Department of Public Health, extreme heat is becoming a major public health concern. In California, where the high temperatures often exceed 100 degrees, what measures can be taken to protect your employees from the summer heat?

Heat illness is a serious medical condition stemming from the body's inability to endure excessive heat, which can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. We have listed various measures that you can use to ensure your employees are protected from heat-related risks below:

• Develop policies and procedures for heat safety, implement a heat illness prevention plan, and train your supervisors on how to recognize heat-related illnesses.

• Train your employees to identify signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, which include headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, rapid pulse, fainting, and/or loss of consciousness.

• Encourage your employees to stay hydrated by providing free, readily accessible drinking water. 

• Provide your employees with more frequent rest breaks in cool shady areas. 

• Encourage supervisors and employees to check in with each other and maintain communication.

• Provide your employees with personal protective equipment, such as sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and clothing that blocks the sun. 

• Reduce heat exposure by conducting more labor-intensive tasks during the cooler hours of the day and consider implementing task rotation and longer rest breaks.

Establish a safe and healthy work environment in preparation for the intense summer heat. Remember, it is your responsibility to protect your employees from heat-related illnesses and ensure their well-being. It is imperative to maintain regular contact, provide appropriate training, and take preventive steps. If you need assistance developing an effective written heat illness prevention policy, contact one of our HR consultants.