As the summer months approach and temperatures rise, it’s important for employers to be aware of the dangers of heat stress in outdoor workers. Sadly, this issue was highlighted in 2016 when a roofing company was cited by OSHA after a 47-year-old laborer died from heat stroke while working his third job of the day. His core body temperature when he was initially hospitalized? A shocking 107 degrees.  

This tragic incident, amongst so many others, should serve as a wake-up call for employers to take action and protect their employees from heat stress. In this article, we will discuss the serious consequences of heat stress and provide effective strategies for employers to keep their workers safe in the summer heat. 

Why Employers Must Understand the Dangers of Heat Stress

Heat stress is a serious health concern that can lead to severe heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps. These conditions occur when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature and becomes overheated.

Outdoor workers, especially those in construction, agriculture, landscaping, and oil and gas industries are at a higher risk for developing these illnesses due to their exposure to extreme heat for extended periods of time. 

In addition to the physical toll, heat stress can also have serious financial consequences for

employers. According to OSHA, heat-related illnesses and deaths cost businesses millions of dollars in medical expenses and lost productivity each year.

Protecting Your Employees from Heat Stress: Effective Strategies

The good news is that heat stress can be prevented through proper planning and implementation of effective strategies. Here are a few simple, yet effective measures employers can take to protect their workers from heat-related illnesses:

  • Provide access to water and encourage hydration.
  • Schedule heavy tasks during cooler times of the day.
  • Train employees on identifying heat stress symptoms.
  • Monitor weather conditions and adjust schedules accordingly.
  • Provide shaded areas for breaks and cooling off outdoors  
  • Implement an acclimatization process for new workers in hot environments.

The Benefits of Addressing Heat Stress

The primary focus of protecting employees from heat stress should always be their health

and well-being. However, there are additional benefits to addressing this issue in the workplace. 

These include:

Increased productivity: When workers are comfortable and not at risk of heat-related illnesses, they can focus on their tasks and be more productive.

Reduced absenteeism: By implementing measures to prevent heat stress, employers can decrease the likelihood of workers needing to take time off due to heat-related illnesses.

Improved employee morale: Employees will appreciate that their safety and well-being are being prioritized, leading to higher job satisfaction and morale.

Enhanced company reputation: A company that prioritizes the health and safety of its

employees are seen as a responsible and caring employer. This can improve the

company’s reputation both internally among employees and externally among potential clients or customers.

Cost savings: Addressing heat stress can save businesses money in the long run. By preventing heat-related illnesses, employers can avoid costly medical expenses and worker compensation

claims. Additionally, a more productive workforce also means increased profits for the company.

Taking Care of Your Employees is Taking Care of Your Business

Employers can easily overlook the dangers of heat stress. It can be a silent but deadly

threat to the health and productivity of their workforce. But by prioritizing employee well-being, employers are not only fulfilling their moral duty, they are also investing in the success of their business. A healthy and happy workforce is a key factor in any company’s long-term success. By taking steps to prevent heat stress in the workplace, employers are showing that they value their employees and their contributions.

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