Emergency Preparedness

Employers can be the first responders to on-site injuries and illnesses. Employers should provide training in a language and manner that workers understand, including information on the health effects of heat, the symptoms of heat illness, how and when to respond to symptoms, and how to prevent heat illness.

Being prepared to respond to heat-related stress and illness is important for worker safety. Creating a plan that is well-thought-out and reviewing it regularly so that you are prepared in case of an emergency situation is the best preventive measure that can be taken.

• Ensure that workers know what to do if a fellow worker has signs and symptoms of heat-related illness.
• Ensure that medical services are available.
• Be prepared to provide first aid for any heat-related illness, and call emergency services if a worker shows signs and symptoms of heatstroke.
• Know how to give clear and precise directions to the worksite, and ensure that workers can do the same.
• Move the worker into the shade, loosen clothing, wet and fan the skin, place ice-packs in the armpits and on the neck, provide hydration, and call emergency services if the worker loses consciousness or appears confused or uncoordinated. Have someone stay with an ill worker.
• Ensure that emergency procedures are used whenever appropriate.
• Develop a plan to reschedule or terminate work if conditions are too threatening to the health of workers.

To learn more about Heat Stress visit our Heat Stress, Illness & Injury Safety Online Training web page.