Preventing Heat Trauma in the Workplace
Recognizing Heat Trauma
Heat trauma starts quietly—like a pot simmering before it boils over. Early warning signs include dizziness, headache and nausea. Sweating that suddenly stops is another red flag—when the body’s cooling system shuts down, a serious emergency is close behind. Heat trauma is more than just sweating in a hot office or humid warehouse – it’s a serious condition that can escalate from heat exhaustion to heat stroke in minutes. Picture a car engine left running on asphalt; your body can’t cool itself fast enough. Like a plant wilted by the sun, cells begin to fail when core temperatures rise. Recognizing early signs can be the difference between a quick rest and a life-threatening emergency.
Quick Checks
Keep an eye out for:
- Confusion or disorientation in staff
- Rapid pulse and shallow breathing
- Clammy or hot, dry skin
- Dark-colored urine or reduced bathroom visits
Building Prevention Habits
A few simple routines can cut risk dramatically. Encourage water breaks every 15 minutes even if no one feels thirsty. Rotate tasks between hot and cool zones to balance exposure. Post reminders by time clocks so heat awareness stays top of mind. Simple steps can keep teams safe when temperatures climb.
Training employees to recognize their own limits builds awareness – and stocking first aid stations with cooling packs ensures quick relief when needed. Scheduling shifts during cooler parts of the day reduces peak exposure. Reminders posted in breakrooms reinforce good practices.
- Drink a half-liter of water before each shift to start fully hydrated.
- Wear breathable, light-colored clothing that lets heat escape.
- Take 10-minute rest periods in air-conditioned or shaded spots.
- Hold brief toolbox talks on heat trauma before peak-temperature hours.
Tools and Support
Place easy-read thermometers in work areas and train peers to spot warning signs. Hand out cooling towels or small fans for instant relief. Assign a “heat watch” role on hot days—switch duties hourly so no one bears the heat too long.
Stay Prepared
Outline clear escalation steps for severe symptoms—call emergency services at any sign of seizure, unconsciousness or rapid temperature rise. Stock first aid stations with plenty of ice packs and oral electrolytes. Regularly review any past heat incidents and update procedures so every office, warehouse and plant stays one step ahead of heat trauma.
See Also
- OSHA heat safety guidelines – https://www.osha.gov/heat
- CDC heat illness information – https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/heat
- NIOSH heat stress manual – https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress
- American Red Cross first aid – https://www.redcross.org/first-aid/heat