As per the Economic Research Forum's Policy Brief No. 67 (November 2021), nearly half of a worker’s capacity can be lost at 33–34°C during moderate-intensity work. High temperatures can cause severe health issues such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other heat-related illnesses.
Several safety precautions, including the use of PPE designed to keep workers cool, can reduce heat stress risks. Here, we have compiled essential safety tips for working in the heat to help employers and workers protect themselves in hot environments.
Safety Tips for Working in the Heat: Why Heat Safety is Crucial for Workers
Heat safety is essential because heat stress can lead to severe health conditions and even death. Below are some consequences of heat stress:
Immediate Illnesses
Heat stress can cause heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other serious illnesses.
Long-term Chronic Diseases
Continuous exposure to extreme heat can contribute to chronic cardiovascular, respiratory, and kidney diseases.
Increased Risk of Accidents
Heat-related dizziness, confusion, loss of dexterity, and impaired cognitive function can increase the risk of accidents.
Transmission of Communicable Diseases
Heat stress may also worsen the spread and impact of communicable diseases.
Safety Tips for Working in the Heat: Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Recognizing heat-related illness symptoms early can prevent life-threatening conditions.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:
- Flushed face
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue
- Excessive sweating
- Dizziness
Symptoms of Heat Stroke:
- Rapid pulse
- Little to no sweating
- High body temperature
- Confusion
- Difficulty speaking
Safety Tips for Working in the Heat: 9 Ways to Stay Protected
1. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is one of the most important heat safety tips. According to OSHA, workers should drink around one liter of water every hour.
Drink 16 ounces of water before starting work, then 8 ounces every 15–20 minutes. Avoid alcohol and energy drinks as they worsen dehydration and stress the heart.
2. Eat Small Portions of Food
Eating smaller, lighter meals helps regulate body temperature. Consume fruits rich in water and nutrients. Avoid protein-heavy meals, as they require more water for digestion and may cause dehydration.
If you take medications, consult a healthcare provider about heat sensitivity.
3. Take Regular Breaks
Breaks allow the body to cool down and rehydrate. Use shaded or air-conditioned areas for maximum recovery. Employers must provide accessible rest areas and clean drinking water.
4. Take Time to Acclimatize
Acclimatization helps the body adjust to hot weather. It may take up to two weeks. After a sudden temperature change, reduce outdoor work by half initially, then gradually increase workload.
Non-fit workers may need more time to acclimatize. The tolerance gained can be lost after a few days away from the heat.
5. Remain in Shaded or Partially Shaded Areas Whenever Possible
Limit direct sun exposure by staying under umbrellas, tents, or shaded structures during breaks.
6. Use Protective Clothing
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton and natural fabrics are best for hot climates. A wide-brimmed hat helps prevent direct sun exposure.
Use cooling cloths, ice packs, and UPF-rated clothing to protect from UV rays. Apply SPF sunscreen to prevent skin damage.
7. Choose Early Mornings and Evenings for Outdoor Work
Schedule strenuous outdoor tasks during cooler parts of the day. Workers should discuss possible schedule adjustments with employers during extreme heat.
8. Apply Sunscreen to Protect Your Skin
Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to exposed skin, including the face, neck, ears, and arms. Reapply according to the product instructions.
9. Monitor the Weather
Check weather forecasts, temperature, humidity, and heat index before starting work. This helps workers plan breaks and hydration schedules.
Employers can use heat safety apps from NIOSH and OSHA to calculate heat index levels and determine risk levels.
Safety Tips for Working in the Heat: The Role of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in Heat Safety
Standard PPE may trap heat and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Workers should avoid being alone in hot environments while wearing PPE.
Specialized cooling PPE, also known as personal cooling systems, can protect workers in hot climates. These systems include:
- Air-cooled garments
- Water-cooled garments
- Wetted overgarments
- Cooling vests
Other PPE for heat protection includes:
- Reflective clothing
- Infrared-reflecting face shields
- Cooling neck wraps
- CSA-certified safety glasses
- CSA-certified face shields
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Protective clothing with heat resistance
How Border PPE Supports Heat Safety for Workers
Border PPE Trading LLC Dubai is an internationally recognized brand specializing in safety aids for the construction sector. Our equipment includes helmets, gloves, shoes, fire protection products, safety vests, traffic safety equipment, glasses, and more.
We offer specially designed fire- and heat-protection products, including:
- Noburn coveralls (cotton flame-retardant fabric)
- Inherent flame retardant coveralls
- Firexe work suits
- Firexe coveralls
- Fire blanket rolls
Safety Tips for Working in the Heat: Conclusion
The heat safety tips discussed above are most effective when integrated into your organization's safety culture and practiced consistently. Any new safety procedure must be communicated clearly and reinforced through proper training.
Regular feedback from employees helps eliminate confusion and ensures that workers fully understand the importance of heat safety. Implementing these safety measures not only protects your workforce but also helps maintain smooth operations without heat-related disruptions.