Heat Stress Safety in Construction
Hot weather is more than uncomfortable—it’s a serious job site hazard. Learn to identify heat stress risks, follow OSHA guidelines, and protect your crew with a practical safety plan.
Why Heat Stress Matters
Summertime brings hot weather conditions that can expose workers to job site heat. OSHA increasingly focuses on raising awareness of heat-related issues and their associated risks.
Common heat stress hazards in construction include direct sun exposure, excessive PPE requirements, and a lack of ability to take breaks in a cool area, all of which contribute to the risks associated with worker exposure to hot weather conditions.
OSHA has guidelines for heat stress, including their Heat Illness Prevention site: https://www.osha.gov/heat. Employers must ensure that workers have enough time to adjust to the heat and provide training on recognizing the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses. They must also offer a shaded area for workers to take breaks and provide access to water to help keep them hydrated.
Heat Stress Safety Plans must outline how employers comply with requirements to protect employees from the hazards of working in heat. This requirement is mandatory for all employers.
RISKEVAL can remotely assess heat exposure risks and compliance gaps, ensuring you protect your employees and business. From heat stress audits to construction risk assessments, we are here to ensure you succeed.
Short Toolbox Training for Heat Stress in Construction:
Working in hot conditions poses serious risks, including heat stress, which can lead to exhaustion, confusion, or heat stroke, particularly in outdoor settings during summer. It's crucial not to ignore these dangers and to prioritize safety.
Key signs of heat stress include heavy sweating, headaches, dizziness, confusion, irritability, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fainting.
To prevent heat-related issues, stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every 15–20 minutes, taking breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and wearing light-colored, breathable clothing. Monitoring your coworkers and promptly reporting any heat stress symptoms is also essential. If someone appears to be affected, cool them down immediately, and seek help.
Remember, heat illness is entirely preventable. To safeguard yourself and your team, drink water regularly, rest whenever needed, and communicate openly about any concerns.
Book a 15-minute remote consult. We’ll help you build or tighten your heat stress protocols - before the OSHA visit.