managing heat stress in the workplace: a comprehensive guide

Heat stress in the workplace poses significant risks to workers' health and safety. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, employers are obligated to take every reasonable precaution to protect their employees from such hazards.

Here are some effective strategies to manage and mitigate heat stress in your workplace:

engineering controls to reduce heat stress

Engineering controls are fundamental in preventing heat stress. These include:

• Use of Machines: Employ machinery like hoists and lift-tables to minimize physical exertion.
• Heat Source Management: Insulate and use reflective barriers around heat sources to reduce ambient temperature.
• Ventilation Systems: Install exhaust systems to remove hot air and steam generated during operations.
• Air Conditioning and Fans: Utilize air conditioners to lower temperature and humidity levels. Fans are effective below 35°C but should be used cautiously at higher temperatures to prevent recirculating hot air.

administrative and work practice controls

Administrative controls are equally crucial in managing heat stress:

• Work Scheduling: Plan strenuous tasks during cooler periods of the day such as early morning or late afternoon.
• Rest Breaks: Increase the frequency and duration of breaks, ensuring workers have access to shaded, cool rest areas.
• Hydration: Provide cool drinking water near work areas and encourage frequent hydration (every 15-20 minutes).
• Education and Training: Train workers to recognize symptoms of heat stress and establish a buddy system for mutual monitoring.
• Emergency Response: Develop and communicate an emergency plan to address heat-related illnesses promptly.

acclimatization and personal protective measures

Helping workers adapt to hot environments is vital:

• Gradual Acclimatization: Allow workers time to adjust to hotter conditions by gradually increasing exposure over one to two weeks.
• Protective Clothing: Ensure workers wear appropriate attire such as light, breathable fabrics and head coverings to minimize direct sun exposure.

Health Considerations: Workers with health conditions or those taking medications affecting heat tolerance should consult their physicians for accommodations.

creating a heat stress control plan

Implementing a comprehensive heat stress control plan tailored to your workplace environment is essential:

• Process Heat Environments: For workplaces with high process heat (e.g., furnaces, bakeries), follow specific guidelines and consult health and safety representatives.
• Hot Weather Plans: Develop and activate simplified plans during periods of extreme heat, guided by local weather alerts and conditions.

education and prevention strategies

Continuous education and proactive measures are key:

• Training Programs: Educate workers, supervisors, and managers to identify early signs of heat stress and promote a proactive approach to prevention.
• Promotion of Healthy Habits: Encourage a healthy lifestyle among workers to enhance overall heat tolerance and fitness levels.

Risk Factor Awareness: Regularly review heat stress risk factors, considering age-related vulnerabilities and medication influences.

key takeaways 

Protecting workers from heat stress demands a comprehensive approach integrating engineering controls, administrative measures, acclimatization practices, and personal protective strategies. Prioritizing employee safety and implementing robust preventive measures helps create a safer and more productive workplace environment, even in challenging conditions.

Managing heat stress extends beyond compliance—it involves ensuring your team's health and safety daily. With the increasing risk and cost of heat-related incidents, effective planning and prevention are crucial for employers.

Workplace incidents, whether heat-related or otherwise, are significant concerns. Understanding risks and taking proactive steps to mitigate them is essential for safeguarding both business continuity and employee well-being. Download our guide on Why Accidents Happen and How to Avoid Them to explore common causes of workplace incidents and strategies for maintaining safety.

Sources: Workplace Safety and Prevention Services: 5 ways to prevent heat stress
Governement of Ontario, Managing Heat Stress at work