Working in high temperatures — outdoors in summer, or indoors near furnaces, kitchens and boilers — can lead to heat stress, heat exhaustion and the life-threatening heat stroke. Prevention is simple, low-cost and effective when planned.
Who is most at risk?
New and returning workers, those not yet acclimatised, older workers, people with certain medical conditions or medications, and anyone wearing heavy PPE or working hard.
Know the signs
Heat exhaustion
Heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps and weakness, with cool, clammy skin.
Heat stroke — a medical emergency
Confusion, slurred speech, fainting or seizures, very high body temperature, and hot skin that may be dry or damp. Call emergency services immediately.
Prevention measures
- Acclimatise: build exposure gradually over about one to two weeks.
- Plan the work: schedule heavy tasks for cooler hours and use mechanical aids.
- Hydrate: provide cool drinking water close to the work and encourage regular small drinks, even without thirst.
- Rest breaks: use shaded or cooled rest areas and adjust work/rest cycles to the heat index.
- Clothing and PPE: breathable, light-coloured clothing; consider cooling vests where suitable.
- Monitor: use a buddy system and check on each other.
- Train: teach symptoms and first aid to workers and supervisors.
First aid for heat illness
- Move the person to a cool, shaded area.
- Remove excess clothing and cool them quickly with water or wet cloths and fanning.
- Give small sips of water if they are fully conscious.
- Call emergency services for any suspected heat stroke while continuing to cool.
Key takeaway: Water, rest, shade and acclimatisation — plus a plan to respond fast.
Frequently asked questions
Are sports drinks necessary?
For most work, water is enough; electrolyte drinks can help in long, very hot shifts.
Training?
Our first aid and health courses cover heat illness response.