Step 1: Include Heat in Your Hazard Assessments

Every effective heat stress program starts with hazard identification.

Many workplaces routinely assess risks such as falls, electrical hazards, confined spaces, and equipment operation but fail to formally evaluate heat exposure.

Heat should be included in both routine and task-specific hazard assessments.

• Air temperature
• Humidity levels
• Direct sunlight exposure
• Radiant heat from equipment
• Physical workload
• Duration of exposure
• Ventilation conditions
• Required PPE

Different jobs may present very different levels of heat risk, even within the same workplace.

Step 2: Monitor Environmental Conditions

Heat stress is influenced by more than temperature alone.

Humidity, airflow, radiant heat, and workload all affect how well the body can cool itself.

• Weather forecasts
• Heat warnings
• Humidity levels
• Workplace temperatures
• Changing environmental conditions

When extreme heat events occur, additional controls should automatically be implemented.

Step 3: Establish Hydration Requirements

Hydration is one of the simplest and most effective heat stress controls.

Workers should have easy access to potable drinking water throughout their shift.

• Readily available water stations
• Scheduled hydration reminders
• Access to electrolyte replacement beverages during prolonged exposure
• Worker education on dehydration symptoms

One common mistake is waiting until workers report feeling thirsty. Thirst is often a sign that dehydration has already begun.

Step 4: Develop Work-Rest Schedules

As temperatures rise, workers require more frequent opportunities to cool down.

• Temperature
• Humidity
• Work intensity
• Clothing requirements
• Individual worker factors

Examples may include:

• Additional breaks during peak afternoon temperatures
• Rotating physically demanding tasks
• Performing heavy work during morning hours
• Reducing workload during extreme heat events

The goal is to prevent excessive heat buildup before symptoms appear.

Step 5: Provide Cooling Areas

Workers need access to recovery spaces where body temperature can decrease.

• Air-conditioned trailers
• Break rooms
• Vehicles with functioning air conditioning
• Shaded rest areas
• Temporary cooling shelters

Cooling stations become particularly important for construction projects, transportation yards, and remote work locations.

Step 6: Address PPE and Clothing Requirements

Personal protective equipment is essential for many tasks but can also contribute to heat stress.

• Flame-resistant clothing
• Coveralls
• Respirators
• Chemical protective clothing
• High-visibility garments

Where possible, select PPE that provides protection while minimizing heat retention.

Moisture-wicking layers, cooling garments, and breathable materials can improve worker comfort and reduce heat stress risk.

Step 7: Create an Acclimatization Process

Workers who are new to hot environments are significantly more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

Acclimatization allows the body to gradually adapt to increased heat exposure.

• New workers
• Seasonal workers
• Employees returning from vacation
• Workers returning from illness
• Personnel reassigned to hotter environments

Exposure should increase gradually over a period of approximately one to two weeks.

Step 8: Train Workers and Supervisors

Training is one of the most important elements of any heat stress program.

Workers should understand:

• Causes of heat stress
• Risk factors
• Symptoms of heat exhaustion
• Symptoms of heat stroke
• Hydration requirements
• Emergency response procedures

Supervisors should receive additional training on:

• Monitoring workers
• Identifying warning signs
• Implementing controls
• Responding to heat-related incidents

Training should be documented and refreshed regularly.

Step 9: Establish Emergency Response Procedures

Every heat stress program should clearly define how emergencies will be managed.

• Recognition of symptoms
• First aid measures
• Escalation requirements
• Emergency contact information
• Access routes for emergency responders
• Incident reporting requirements

Workers should never be left guessing what to do if a coworker develops symptoms of heat stroke.

Step 10: Document Everything

Documentation demonstrates that heat hazards are being actively managed.

• Hazard assessments
• Training records
• Heat-related incidents
• Corrective actions
• Inspection reports
• Worker acknowledgements
• Program reviews

Organizations that maintain strong documentation are better positioned to demonstrate due diligence and continuously improve their programs.