Working Safely in the Heat
Heat Stress & Heat-Related Illness Prevention Guide
Purpose
Working outdoors during Oklahoma summers can expose employees to dangerous heat conditions. Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly and become life-threatening if they are not recognized and treated immediately. This guide provides practical steps to prevent heat stress, recognize warning signs, and respond appropriately.
Before You Start Work
Every employee should:
- Drink water before beginning work.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing whenever possible.
- Wear a wide-brim hat or cooling hat if available.
- Apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher).
- Eat regular meals throughout the day.
- Get adequate sleep before working in extreme heat.
- Know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness.
- Inform your supervisor if you take medications or have medical conditions that may increase your risk.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is your best defense against heat illness.
Recommendations:
- Drink 8 ounces of water every 15–20 minutes while working.
- Do not wait until you are thirsty.
- During prolonged heavy work, alternate water with an electrolyte replacement drink.
- Avoid excessive caffeine and energy drinks.
- Avoid alcohol before and after work in hot weather.
Signs you need more water:
- Dark yellow urine
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle cramps
Take Breaks
Supervisors should encourage frequent rest periods.
General recommendations:
| Heat Conditions |
Suggested Rest Breaks |
| Warm (80–89°F) |
10–15 minutes each hour as needed |
| Hot (90–99°F) |
15 minutes every hour |
| Very Hot (100°F+) |
20–30 minutes every hour or more depending on workload |
Whenever possible:
- Rest in shaded areas.
- Use air-conditioned buildings or vehicles.
- Remove heavy PPE during breaks if safe to do so.
Acclimatization
Employees new to working in the heat are at the highest risk.
Gradually increase exposure over 7–14 days.
New employees should:
- Start with lighter workloads.
- Take additional breaks.
- Be closely monitored by supervisors.
Recognizing Heat-Related Illness
Heat Rash
Symptoms
- Red clusters of small blisters
- Itchy skin
- Irritated areas under clothing
Treatment
- Move to a cooler location.
- Keep skin dry.
- Wear loose clothing.
Heat Cramps
Symptoms
- Painful muscle cramps
- Heavy sweating
- Fatigue
Treatment
- Stop work.
- Move to a cool area.
- Drink water or an electrolyte beverage.
- Stretch affected muscles gently.
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms
- Heavy sweating
- Cool, pale, clammy skin
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fast, weak pulse
- Muscle cramps
- Fainting
Treatment
- Move to a cool or shaded location immediately.
- Loosen clothing.
- Apply cool, wet towels.
- Sip cool water slowly.
- Elevate the legs if faint.
- Notify a supervisor.
Seek medical evaluation if symptoms do not improve within 30 minutes.
Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency)
Heat stroke can be fatal.
Symptoms
- Body temperature above 103°F
- Hot, red skin (may be dry or damp)
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Rapid, strong pulse
Immediate Actions
Call 911 immediately.
While waiting for EMS:
- Move the person into shade.
- Remove excess clothing.
- Cool rapidly using water, ice packs, or cool towels.
- Fan the individual.
- Do NOT give fluids if unconscious or confused.
Heat stroke requires emergency medical treatment.
The Buddy System
Employees should monitor one another for signs of heat illness.
Watch for:
- Confusion
- Slowed movements
- Excessive fatigue
- Unsteady walking
- Changes in behavior
- Complaints of dizziness or nausea
If something doesn’t seem right, stop work and notify a supervisor immediately.
High-Risk Employees
Extra precautions should be taken for workers who:
- Are new to outdoor work
- Are over age 65
- Have heart disease
- Have diabetes
- Are overweight
- Take blood pressure medications, diuretics, or other medications that affect heat tolerance
Supervisor Responsibilities
Supervisors should:
- Monitor weather conditions daily.
- Ensure water is readily available.
- Schedule strenuous work during cooler morning hours whenever possible.
- Encourage regular hydration.
- Provide shaded or cooled rest areas.
- Watch employees for signs of heat illness.
- Never leave a sick employee alone.
- Call emergency medical services immediately if heat stroke is suspected.
Heat Safety Tips
- Drink water frequently.
- Take scheduled breaks.
- Wear sunscreen.
- Wear breathable clothing.
- Work as a team.
- Pace yourself.
- Avoid overexertion during the hottest part of the day.
- Report symptoms early.
- Never ignore dizziness or confusion.
Remember
Water • Rest • Shade
Recognizing heat illness early can save a life. If you notice symptoms in yourself or a coworker, stop work immediately, notify your supervisor, and seek medical attention when necessary.
When in doubt—cool down and get checked out.
