OSHA Heat Illness Prevention
Keep Workers Safe in Hot Conditions
🛡️ The 3-Step Prevention Plan
1
WATER
Drink frequently
Even if you're not thirsty
16-32 oz per hour in hot conditions
2
REST
Take breaks
In shade or air conditioning
More frequent breaks in extreme heat
3
SHADE
Provide protection
From direct sunlight
Accessible to all workers
⚠️ Warning Signs of Heat Illness
Heavy Sweating
Or stopped sweating
Headache
Dizziness, nausea
Confusion
Altered mental state
Muscle Cramps
Weakness, fatigue
Rapid Pulse
High body temperature
Nausea
Vomiting, loss of appetite
🚨 EMERGENCY: Call 911 Immediately
If worker shows signs of heat stroke: high body temperature, confusion, loss of consciousness, or hot/dry skin
✅ Employer Requirements
Training
Educate workers on heat illness prevention and recognition
Educate workers on heat illness prevention and recognition
Water Access
Provide potable water and encourage frequent drinking
Provide potable water and encourage frequent drinking
Shade/Cooling
Establish shaded or air-conditioned rest areas
Establish shaded or air-conditioned rest areas
Work Scheduling
Plan heavy work during cooler parts of the day
Plan heavy work during cooler parts of the day
Acclimatization
Gradually increase workload for new/returning workers
Gradually increase workload for new/returning workers
Buddy System
Workers should monitor each other for heat illness signs
Workers should monitor each other for heat illness signs
🌡️ High-Risk Conditions
Temperature > 80°F
Especially with high humidity or direct sun exposure
Especially with high humidity or direct sun exposure
Poor Air Movement
Confined spaces or areas with little ventilation
Confined spaces or areas with little ventilation
Heat Sources
Ovens, furnaces, or other equipment generating heat
Ovens, furnaces, or other equipment generating heat
Physical Exertion
Heavy lifting, sustained physical activity
Heavy lifting, sustained physical activity