Heat Illness Prevention
Heat & Cold Stress | 10-15 min
Summary
Heat illness kills workers every year, but these deaths are 100% preventable with proper precautions. OSHA reports that from 2011-2020, heat killed 436 workers and seriously injured more than 56,000 in the United States. The tragedy is that every one of these deaths could have been prevented through adequate hydration, acclimatization, and rest breaks.
Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.
Start your 7-day free trialKey Points to Cover
- Drink water frequently - at least 8 ounces every 20 minutes
- Take rest breaks in shade or air conditioning
- Know the signs of heat illness in yourself and coworkers
- New workers need 1-2 weeks to acclimatize
- Heat stroke is a medical emergency - call 911
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should this safety talk take?
Plan for about 10-15 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.
Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?
Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.