Heat Illness Prevention Tips for National Safety Month
June is National Safety Month—a time to spotlight key areas of health and safety in the workplace and beyond. With summer temperatures rising, it’s crucial to focus on one often-overlooked hazard: heat illness. Whether you’re on a construction site, in a warehouse, or participating in outdoor recreation, excessive heat can pose serious risks to your health and productivity.
At CMR Risk & Insurance Services, we’re committed to helping our clients stay safe and informed. Read on for practical tips to prevent heat-related illnesses and keep your teams cool, safe, and productive.
Understanding Heat Illness
Heat illness encompasses several conditions that occur when the body cannot cool itself effectively. These include:
- Heat Rash: Skin irritation caused by excessive sweating.
- Heat Cramps: Muscle pains or spasms during intense activity.
- Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, cold/clammy skin, nausea, or dizziness.
- Heat Stroke: A life-threatening condition characterized by confusion, loss of consciousness, and high body temperature.
Who’s Most at Risk?
- Outdoor workers in construction, agriculture, or landscaping.
- Employees in hot indoor environments like warehouses or kitchens.
- Individuals with preexisting conditions or those who are not acclimated to hot weather.
Prevention Tips
Here are some key strategies for reducing heat-related risks:
1. Hydrate Regularly
Encourage employees to drink water every 15–20 minutes, even if they’re not thirsty. Avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks which can contribute to dehydration.
2. Take Frequent Breaks
Schedule regular rest periods in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Employers should ensure that employees know it’s okay to take breaks when they feel overheated.
3. Acclimate Gradually
New or returning workers should ease into physically demanding work in the heat. Full acclimatization may take up to two weeks.
4. Wear the Right Gear
Light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing can help the body regulate temperature. When possible, provide protective gear designed for hot environments.
5. Educate and Train
Make sure all employees and supervisors are trained to recognize the signs of heat illness and understand your company’s emergency response procedures.
6. Use the Buddy System
Encourage team members to watch out for each other—early intervention can prevent a serious health event.
“Developing a written Heat Illness Prevention Plan along with effective training is a strong control to ensure worker’s are protected from heat illness related injuries.” said Joel Sandoval, Risk Management Specialist at CMR Risk & Insurance Services.
Final Thoughts
With preparation and awareness, heat-related illnesses are largely preventable. As part of National Safety Month, let’s prioritize worker safety and empower teams with the knowledge they need to beat the heat.
If your organization needs help building or reviewing a heat illness prevention plan, contact our team at CMR Risk & Insurance Services. We’re here to support your commitment to safety—year-round.
