Heat stress: a practical checklist for supervisors

Ten questions every supervisor should be able to answer before a hot shift starts.

Heat illness is entirely preventable, yet it continues to injure and kill outdoor and indoor workers every summer. Before a hot shift, a supervisor should be able to answer “yes” to each of these questions.

1. Do I know today’s heat index or WBGT reading, and what it means for our work-rest schedule?
2. Are new and returning workers on an acclimatisation plan?
3. Is cool drinking water available close to every work area?
4. Is there shade or a cool rest area that people can actually reach?
5. Have we moved the heaviest work to the coolest part of the day?
6. Are workers paired so that someone is watching each person?
7. Does everyone know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke?
8. Do people know they can stop work and rest without being penalised?
9. Is a first-aider available, and do they know how to cool a casualty quickly?
10. Is the emergency number and route to medical help clear?

Heat stroke is a medical emergency

Confusion, collapse, or hot skin in a worker who has stopped sweating are signs of heat stroke. Call for emergency help and begin rapid cooling immediately.