Heat stress and stroke are two of the most common workplace injuries in warmer climates. In 2015, exposure to environmental heat led to 37 work-related deaths and 2,830 nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses involving days away from work. 33 of the 37 fatalities caused by exposure to heat occurred in the summer months of June through September.

What is heat stress? Heat stress is a serious workplace hazard that occurs when the body can no longer cool itself effectively in hot environments. Whether working outdoors in summer heat or indoors near furnaces, ovens, or heavy equipment, workers exposed to high temperatures are at increased risk for heat-related illness.

Without early recognition and proper prevention, heat stress can progress quickly from mild discomfort to life-threatening heat stroke.

This guide breaks down the signs and symptoms of heat stress, what to do when symptoms appear, and how safety managers can help prevent heat-related injuries on the job.

What are the signs and symptoms of heat stress?

The risk of heat stress and stroke dramatically increases when the heat index climbs to 90 degrees or more, but understanding the signs and symptoms can limit the risks and effects.

Common signs of heat stress and stroke:

• A throbbing headache
• Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting
• Lack of sweating, despite the heat
• Red, hot, and dry skin
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat or breathing
• Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering
• Seizures

Heatstroke is an emergency situation in which the body loses its ability to cool itself.

What to do if a worker shows heat stress symptoms

If you or someone else starts to experience symptoms of heat stress or stroke, call 911. While waiting for EMS to arrive, follow these steps:

1. Stop work immediately and call emergency services
2. Move the person to a shaded area or cool indoor space
3. Loosen or remove excess clothing or PPE
4. Cool the victim rapidly using whatever method possible, such as putting them in a tub of cool water or cold shower; spraying them down with cool water from a garden hose, sponging them with cool water, or wrapping them in cooling towels
5. If you have ice packs or cold compresses, apply these under their arms, on their groin area, and behind their neck 
6. Encourage drinking water if the person is conscious

If someone is experiencing a heat stroke, sometimes their muscles will begin to twitch uncontrollably. If this happens, keep the victim from injuring themselves, but do not give them any fluids. If there is vomiting, make sure the airway remains open by turning the victim on his or her side.

Heat-related symptoms and illnesses are nothing to take lightly. In addition to knowing the signs and symptoms of heat stress, OSHA recommends being prepared with solutions such as finding shade, staying hydrated, taking periodic breaks, wearing light-colored clothes, and using personal cooling apparel.

Use the above information to help keep each other safe.

PPE considerations for heat stress prevention

High temperatures on worksites can make choosing PPE difficult, but the right PPE plays a vital role in preventing heat stress. Selecting PPE designed for hot environments can help reduce heat buildup while maintaining protection.

Consider PPE features such as:

• Lightweight, breathable glove materials
• Moisture-wicking liners
• Ventilated hard hats and helmets
• Cooling accessories like neck wraps or arm sleeves

Using the right PPE as part of a comprehensive heat illness prevention program helps protect workers without adding unnecessary heat burden.

HexArmor® can help

We've designed warm-weather PPE to not only provide all the safety benefits of standard industrial gear but also offer the necessary breathability and comfort.

Here are a couple of HexArmor® solutions that can help keep you cooler when the temperature rises:

• Warm weather gloves: Each glove is crafted from advanced, breathable material, featuring our innovative HexVent® technology, which provides a comfortable heat-release system.
  • Browse breathable safety gloves here
• Vented helmets: Select Ceros® safety helmets feature the adjustable HexVent® airflow system, which includes three vents for maximum ventilation.
  • Browse vented safety helmets here

Let us know if you need help or if you're ready to start a trial - our Solution Specialists are ready to work with you. Call 1-877-MY ARMOR or send us a message.