It’s that time of year again where hot weather and humidity can make even a basic task difficult to perform.  When the heat and humidity rise, it is important to train employees to alter their habits to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke.  Every year thousands of workers become sick from occupational heat exposure.  OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) created the ‘Water. Rest. Shade.’ campaign to educate employers and employees on how to work safely in the heat. 

OSHA regulations require employers to provide workplaces free of known safety hazards.  This includes protecting workers from extreme heat.  An employer with workers exposed to high temperatures should establish a complete heat illness prevention program.  OSHA and NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) have very useful resources including training materials and information on developing a program for your workplace.   

Heat related illnesses are preventable through awareness training and by taking some basic precautions – you can protect your team from this very real hazard. For more information, resources or training contact the LandrumHR Risk team.  Email us at safety@landrumhr.com to get started on your plan today!  Summer will be here soon!