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Environmental Health & Safety

Heat Stress

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Extended exposure to heat and high humidity can lead to heat-related illness and injury. When the body becomes overheated due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, excessive physical activity, or dehydration, a condition of heat stress exists. This can lead to a number of problems including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat cramps, fainting, or heat rash. Symptoms and signs may include confusion, heavy sweating or cessation of sweating, dizziness or lightheadedness, and fainting. 

Adopting the following preventative measures can assist with reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you're not thirsty.
  • Wear Appropriate Clothing: Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help your body stay cool. Use a wide-brimmed hat or umbrella to shield yourself from direct sunlight.
  • Work Schedule: When possible, adjust the work schedule so heavier work is assigned during the cooler part of the day. Establish a schedule for work and rest periods during hot days.
  • Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with high SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate heat-related issues.
  • Monitor High-Risk Individuals: Avoid placing "high-risk" employees in hot work environments for extended periods, as employees vary in their tolerance to heat stress conditions.
  • Recognize Warning Signs: Learn the symptoms of heat exhaustion (e.g., dizziness, heavy sweating, weakness) and heat stroke (e.g., lack of sweating, confusion, rapid heartbeat). Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur.
  • Use Cooling Methods: Use fans, apply cold compresses to help lower body temperature, rest often in shady areas or air conditioning. 

Resources & Forms

OSHA - Heat Exposure
OSHA - Heat Stress National Emphasis Program

Training

Heat Stress in the Workplace - HSW-1.2
This course addresses the hazards of working in high heat, how to minimize or eliminate the onset of heat stress, identifying the hazardous health effects of high heat, methods to prevent those health effects, and what to do if a co-worker exhibits symptoms of heat stress. Assignments of this course are overseen by the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Coordinator. For further information, contact the EHS Coordinator at 817-257-7220 or safety@tcu.edu.