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Heat stress can occur wherever work operations involve heavy physical labour in hot, humid environments. The locations may be indoors or outdoors. Protective clothing can also contribute to the problem.

Heat stress causes the body's core temperature to rise. A series of disorders can develop, ranging from discomfort and pain (heat rash and heat cramps) to life-threatening conditions (heat exhaustion and heat stroke).

Members of the Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario (OHSCO) have developed a Heat Stress Awareness Guide, Heat Stress Awareness Tool and Heat Stress Poster to provide information and advice on managing and controlling heat stress in the workplace.

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Heat Stress Awareness Guide
Heat Stress Awareness Guide The Heat Stress Awareness Guide helps employers and workers learn how to prevent heat stress. The guide:
  1. summarizes the causes, symptoms, and treatment of heat-related illness,
  2. demonstrates how to use the Humidex to assess heat stress hazards, and
  3. outlines specific actions for managing and controlling heat stress.
Includes a self-audit checklist, a sample heat stress policy, an outline of the essential elements of a heat stress program, and useful contact information.
Heat Stress Awareness Tool
Heat Stress Awareness Tool Use the Heat Stress Awareness Tool to assess the risk of heat stress at your workplace. Measure the temperature and humidity, then refer to the Heat stress Action Chart to determine the appropriate course of action to protect yourself.

More detailed information is available in the Heat Stress Awareness Guide .
Heat Stress Posters
Heat Stress Poster Download OHSCO's Heat Stress Poster and post it at your workplace. It contains information on symptoms and tips on how to protect yourself. (PDF – 8 1/2" X 11").

Also available: CSAO's Heat Stress Poster – "Don't Crack Under the Heat"
FAQs about Heat Stress
For answers to the most frequently asked questions about heat stress, visit the FAQs page.

1.  Where does heat stress occur in construction?

2.  What happens when the body's core temperature rises?

3.  How can we recognize heat stress disorders?

4.  What factors are used to assess heat stress risk?

5.  Are there measures for evaluating heat stress risk?

6.  How can heat stress be controlled?

7.  What are the responsibilities of workplace parties regarding heat stress?

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