This release was issued under a previous government.
Employers and workers should be aware of the early signs of heat stress and treat it right away:
- headache
- dizziness and fatigue
- dehydration
- heavy sweating
- muscle cramps
- changes to breathing and pulse rate.
These symptoms can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Employers must ensure the health and safety of workers
The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires employers to take all necessary steps to keep their workers healthy and safe. Hot weather is a hazard which employers must identify, address and take steps to control.
“While many Albertans are enjoying the warm weather, the heat can pose a risk to those working outdoors. I encourage all employers and workers to know the signs of heat stress and take steps to protect the health of everyone in the workplace.”
Employers should help protect workers by:
- reducing physical activity, changing the work location to a cooler, shaded area, and creating a cooling station where workers can rest;
- Using a work-rest schedule with extra breaks if needed;
- allowing workers to acclimatize by gradually increasing the time they spend working outdoors;
- scheduling physically demanding jobs for the cooler times or day; and
- providing plenty of cool drinking water.
If you feel your workplace is unsafe due to the hot weather, call the OHS Contact Centre at 1-866-415-8690.
