As we approach summer, with the weather improving, it is important to keep in mind the hazards workers can face when working outdoors. While hot weather is great when you’re relaxing at the cottage, at work it can become a serious health hazard. When your body loses too much sweat through heavy labour or working under hot, humid conditions, you can become dehydrated and face a heat-related illness. Some examples include:

• Heat rash (plugged sweat glands)
• Heat cramps (salt loss from sweating)
• Heat exhaustion
• Heat stroke

Collaborating with the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety & Health (CROSH), the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers Inc. (OHCOW) has launched the NEW Heat Stress Toolkit. This toolkit is designed to support, empower and protect workers and guide workplaces. This toolkit was developed with the support of the Occupational Health and Safety Prevention System partners and local labour unions.