Is Your Workplace Too Hot?

Did you know that the Chicago Heatwave of 1995 resulted in over 700 deaths? The Russian Heatwave of 2010 caused around 56,000 deaths, massive wildfires, and significant crop failures. And, the summer heatwave of 2022 prompted 3,000 more deaths than usual among people 65-years-old and over in England and Wales. 

It’s clear that the impact of extreme heat can result in severe consequences. In addition to death, these might include:

It can be scary to think about the negative impacts of extreme heat on the environment, our infrastructure, the economy, and society. But that’s why it is so important to make an impact where we can—by keeping human beings safe in high temperatures.

In extreme heat situations, humans may suffer from myriad health issues, including: 

• Sunburn and Dehydration
• Heat Cramps and Heat Rash
• Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

Heat stress occurs when the body cannot maintain a normal temperature due to external heat. It is caused by high environmental temperatures, high humidity, physical exertion, and inappropriate clothing. At work, heat stress can happen when working indoors or outside.

Heat-related symptoms might include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache to start. And while everyone is susceptible, industries like manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and mining are particularly at risk. Additionally, personal factors such as age, medical conditions, medications, and acclimatization status can influence susceptibility.

In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides guidelines for heat stress management, although there are no specific federal regulations. Other countries may – or may not – have specific regulations and guidelines to protect workers from heat stress.

Some of the common ways that people escape extreme heat are by staying hydrated, using cooling systems or fans, and wearing appropriate (breathable) clothing. However, for workers in certain types of jobs – like manufacturing – it can be very difficult to avoid the heat while on the clock.

That’s why OSHA proposed a new rule to protect workers from extreme heat this summer. 

The proposed rule would apply to all employers in general industry, construction, maritime, and agriculture sectors under OSHA’s jurisdiction. Employers would be required to develop a plan to assess and mitigate workplace heat hazards; develop emergency response plans and provide training for employees. The goal is to prevent and reduce heat-related occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities.

While the specifics of the rule are still in discussion, we do know that ensuring the safety of employees from heat stress in the manufacturing industry involves implementing a combination of engineering controls, administrative measures, and personal protective strategies. 

Engineering Controls

• Ventilation and Cooling Systems: Install fans, misters, exhaust systems, or air conditioning to improve air circulation and reduce indoor temperatures.
• Insulation: Insulate or shield hot surfaces and equipment to reduce ambient heat.
• Shading: Use shades or barriers to block direct sunlight or radiant heat from equipment.
• Heat-Reflective Coatings: Apply reflective coatings to roofs and walls to reduce heat absorption.

Administrative Controls

• Work Schedule Adjustments: Schedule heavy-duty tasks during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon).
• Frequent Breaks: Implement more frequent rest breaks in cooler, shaded, or air-conditioned areas.
• Hydration: Provide easy access to cool, fresh drinking water and encourage regular hydration.
• Acclimatization: Gradually increase workloads and exposure times for new employees or those returning from a prolonged absence to build heat tolerance.
• Training and Education: Educate employees on the signs and symptoms of heat stress and the importance of hydration and rest.
• Buddy System: Implement a buddy system where workers monitor each other for signs of heat stress.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Cooling Vests: Provide cooling vests or other wearable cooling devices.
• Lightweight Clothing: Encourage the use of lightweight, breathable, and light-colored clothing.
• Hats and Sun Protection: Provide wide-brimmed hats and other protective gear to shield from direct sunlight.

Health Monitoring

• Regular Monitoring: Conduct regular health checks for signs of heat stress, such as dizziness, fatigue, confusion, or excessive sweating.
• First Aid Training: Train staff in first aid for heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Emergency Procedures: Develop and communicate clear procedures for responding to heat stress incidents.

Environmental Monitoring

• Temperature and Humidity Monitoring: Use devices to regularly monitor workplace temperature and humidity levels.
• Heat Index: Calculate the Heat Index or Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) to assess the risk of heat stress more accurately.

Policy and Planning

• Heat Stress Policy: Develop and implement a comprehensive heat stress management policy.
• Emergency Action Plan: Establish and communicate an emergency action plan specifically for heat-related incidents.

By integrating these strategies, employers can create a safer working environment that minimizes the risk of heat stress and protects the well-being of their employees.

Skillsoft's Environmental, Health, and Safety solution has relevant courses that you can assign out to your team:

• Heat Stress Recognition and Prevention
• Heat Stress Impact: Precautions and Safe Work Practices
• Heat Stress Impact: Symptoms
• Heat Stress Impact: Treatment
• Heat Illness Prevention (Outdoor & Indoor Places) for Supervisors – Cal/OSHA
• Heat Stress Recognition and Prevention – Cal/OSHA

These courses are flexible and integrate seamlessly into your existing training regimen, ensuring a safe and productive summer for everyone. We even have general summer safety courses!

Stay safe this summer. Learn more.