WorkSafeBC is reminding employers and workers about the risk of developing symptoms of heat stress when working outdoors. With high temperatures in many parts of British Columbia, heat stress when left untreated can lead to injuries from heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

“With the hot weather, workers and employers need to be aware of the risks from sun exposure and heat stress,” said Barry Nakahara, senior manager of Prevention Field Services at WorkSafeBC. “Heat stress is a preventable injury, yet last year in B.C. there were 26 accepted claims for work-related heat stress injuries.”

To prevent heat stress injuries, WorkSafeBC requires employers to conduct heat stress assessments. As appropriate, employers must have a heat stress mitigation plan that provides education and training in recognizing the symptoms of heat stress and heat stroke.

Employers are encouraged to change work practices and policies to limit risk, monitor heat conditions and require workers to not work alone, and determine appropriate work-rest cycles.

Employers should also rotate work activities or use additional workers to reduce exposure, establish cooling areas with shade and water, and make sure emergency procedures are in place and there is adequate first-aid coverage. Physical modifications should also be made to facilities, equipment and processes to reduce exposure.

Workers should stay hydrate, wear light-coloured and loose fitting clothing, and take rest breaks in cool, well-ventilated areas. Hard physical work should be done during the coolest parts of the day before 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m. They should also know their personal risk factors such as medications of pre-existing conditions, and check for signs and symptoms of heat stress.