Factors That Contribute to Heat Stress

The first step employers can take to protect their workers from heat stress is to become informed about the factors and activities that contribute to heat stress. Environmental factors that contribute to heat stress include the following:

• High temperatures and humidity in the work area
• Direct sun exposure with no shade available
• Exposure to radiant heat sources, such as furnaces
• Limited air circulation

Human physical factors that contribute to heat stress include the following:

• Insufficient fluid consumption
• Physical exertion
• Heavy personal protective equipment (PPE) and clothing

Individual health issues that contribute to heat stress include the following:

• Poor physical health
• Certain medications, such as blood pressure pills or antihistamines
• Lack of acclimatization to the hot working conditions
• Pregnancy
• Advanced age (65 years or older)
• Previous heat-related illness

To learn more about Oil & Gas Extraction visit our Oil & Gas Extraction Safety Online Training web page.