As the sun starts to shine and the temperature rises, so do the risks to your team’s health and safety. Whether your staff are on construction sites, in warehouses, driving vehicles, or working outdoors, heat stress is something you can’t afford to ignore.
In simple terms, heat stress happens when the body struggles to cool itself down. And when that happens, it can lead to anything from tiredness and headaches to serious illnesses like heatstroke. The good news? A few simple steps can make all the difference.
Here’s how to keep your team safe and comfortable this summer.
What is Heat Stress?
Heat stress isn’t just about feeling hot or sweaty. It’s a serious risk that can affect concentration, reaction times, and physical health. Common symptoms include:
- Dizziness or fainting
- Muscle cramps
- Headaches
- Excessive sweating (or, worryingly, no sweating at all)
- Nausea or vomiting
If left untreated, it can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, both of which are medical emergencies.
Who’s at Risk?
Anyone working in hot conditions can be affected, but certain roles are especially high risk, including:
- Outdoor workers (construction, landscaping, agriculture)
- People working in hot indoor environments (factories, kitchens, warehouses)
- Drivers and delivery workers in hot vehicles
- Staff in heavy PPE or uniforms that limit airflow
If your team falls into any of those categories, it’s time to take action.
Simple Steps to Beat the Heat
You don’t need fancy equipment or endless policies. Just a bit of planning and good communication can help protect your people. Here’s what to do:
1. Encourage Regular Breaks
Let workers rest in a shaded or cool area. Breaks in hot weather aren’t laziness, they’re safety.
2. Keep Water Handy
Make sure drinking water is always available and encourage staff to drink regularly, even if they’re not thirsty.
3. Adjust the Work Schedule
Where possible, plan the more physically demanding tasks for cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon).
4. Dress for the Weather
Review any uniform or PPE requirements. Can layers be reduced? Is there a cooler alternative? Encourage lightweight, breathable clothing.
5. Look Out for Each Other
Make heat stress awareness part of the team culture. If someone looks unwell, take it seriously and act quickly.
Legal Reminder
Employers have a duty to provide a safe working environment, including managing the risk of heat stress. If it’s foreseeable and avoidable, it’s your responsibility to do something about it.
What If Someone Shows Signs of Heat Stress?
- Move them to a cool place
- Give them water to sip
- Loosen tight clothing
- Call for medical help if symptoms worsen or don’t improve
It’s better to overreact than ignore the signs.
Need Help Reviewing Your Summer Safety Plan?
We can help you spot risks, update your risk assessments, and put practical, no-fuss measures in place – get in touch.
Don’t wait for someone to fall ill. Take action now.