Why this matters
Heat illness can become serious within hours. New workers, and people returning after time off, are most at risk in the first days.
What to cover
- Drink water often, before you are thirsty. Small amounts every 15 to 20 minutes.
- Take rest breaks in shade or a cool place, more often as it gets hotter.
- Know the signs: heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, cramps. Confusion, hot dry skin, or fainting is an emergency, so call for help.
- Ease new and returning workers into the heat over several days.
- Wear light, loose clothing, and a hat where it is safe to do so.
- Look out for each other. People often don't notice it in themselves.
Ask the crew
- Where are the water and shade for this job?
- What are the signs you would look for in a coworker?
- Who calls for help, and what do they say?
One thing to do today
Check that water and a shaded rest area are in place before the first break.
