Heat Stress Prevention
US & Canada General Construction
Why it matters
Heat illness can escalate from cramps to heat stroke in under an hour. New workers are at the highest risk in their first week.
Key points
- Drink water every 15-20 minutes, before you feel thirsty. Avoid energy drinks.
- Take breaks in shade or cooled areas; use a buddy system to watch each other.
- Know the signs: heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, confusion, no sweating (emergency).
- Heat stroke is a 911 call: cool the worker immediately, do not wait.
- Acclimatize new workers gradually over 1-2 weeks.
Discussion
Where is the water station today? Who is paired with whom for the buddy check?
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