WorkSafeBC is reminding employers to prepare now for risks associated with summer weather before conditions become hazardous.

“Heat, UV exposure and wildfire smoke pose health risks for workers, and conditions can change quickly,” said Todd McDonald, head of Prevention Services at WorkSafeBC. “Don’t wait for a heat wave or smoky skies to start planning for these hazards. Employers should have a plan in place now and must engage workers and joint health and safety committees in the planning process.”

As part of its prevention work this summer, WorkSafeBC officers will check that employers have assessed these risks and implemented appropriate controls.

Heat stress can lead to serious health effects. Risk increases with factors such as high humidity, radiant heat from equipment, limited air movement, physically demanding work, protective clothing, and individual factors such as hydration, fitness level, or certain medications.

Employers should assess heat stress risks based on workplace conditions, job demands, and any factors that may increase a worker’s susceptibility to heat-related illness.

Once risks are identified, employers should:

• Monitor workplace conditions and reassess regularly.
• Provide cool drinking water and regular rest breaks.
• Set up shaded or cooled recovery areas.
• Schedule strenuous work during cooler parts of the day.
• Improve ventilation and cooling in indoor work areas.
• Rotate workers between hotter and cooler environments.
• Train workers to recognize the early signs of heat stress in themselves and others and how to seek first aid. Symptoms can include excessive sweating, muscle cramps, nausea, weakness, dizziness, agitation, or confusion.
• Encourage workers to report symptoms early and speak up if conditions become unsafe.

During the summer months, outdoor workers also face risks associated with UV exposure. Prolonged sun exposure can cause skin damage — making outdoor workers 3.5 times more likely to develop skin cancer than indoor workers.

Risk can be reduced by monitoring the UV index, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when possible.