Hot weather is here and heat related illness can creep up on you.

It is important you plan ahead if you are going to be working (or playing) in hot environments.

OSHA recommends… Water/Rest/Shade

Ensure that cool drinking water is available and easily accessible. (Note: Certain beverages, such as caffeine and alcohol can lead to dehydration.)

Encourage workers to drink a liter of water over one hour, which is about one cup every fifteen minutes.

Provide or ensure that fully shaded or air-conditioned areas are available for resting and cooling down.

And if you are not already aware of the signs and symptoms of heat related illness and what to do if co-workers (or others) are experiencing heat related illness check NIOSH’s recommendations.

Talk to your employer about their hot weather work plan.

A message from the ICWUC Health and Safety Department.