LANDSCAPE ONTARIO – WORKPLACE SAFETY TAILGATE TALKS
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HEAT STRESS
Personal Protective Equipment
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Heat related incidents are increasing in frequency every
year. From 2011-2023, 734 sun and heat related cases (not
including fatalities) were reported to the Canadian Hospitals
Injury Reporting and Prevention Program (PHAC, 2023). In
2010 alone, Ontario and Quebec reported 280 heat-related
fatalities (Public Safety Canada, 2020). Do you know how to
recognize the symptoms of heat stress related conditions?
!
Hot weather causes more fatalities than any other weather
related source. Recognizing the symptoms and taking
precautions could save a life.
Prevention Points
Working in hot weather puts stress on the body's cooling system,
causing heat stress. When heat is combined with other stresses
– like hard physical work, loss of fluids, or fatigue; it can lead to
a heat-related illness, disability, or even death. Table 2 highlights
the symptoms and associated responses for heat cramps, heat
exhaustion and heat stroke.
Take these precautions to prevent heat stress conditions:
Drink plenty of water to keep body fluid levels up.
Get out of the heat occasionally and take frequent breaks in
cool shady areas.
Dress appropriately for the weather.
Pace body according to weather conditions. It is important to
gradually get your body used to working in warmer climates.
Be alert to early warning signs of heat stress, both in yourself
and in your co-workers.
For more information on managing and controlling heat stress
in the workplace, see the Heat Stress Awareness Guide.
