Toolbox Talk: Heat Stress

Before you start

Check today's heat index before the talk. Know where water, shade and the nearest first aid kit are.

Read this to your crew

Heat illness can go from feeling a little off to a medical emergency fast. It is also preventable. Workers who are new or returning from time off are most at risk, because their bodies have not adjusted to the heat yet.

Today we will cover how to prevent heat illness and how to recognize it in yourself and in each other.

Key points

Drink water often. Drink before you are thirsty. A cup every 15 to 20 minutes is a good rule when it is hot.
Rest in the shade. Take breaks in shade or a cool area, and take more of them as the heat goes up.
Build up slowly. New and returning workers should ease into full workloads over the first week or two.
Know heat exhaustion. Heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea and weakness. Move the person somewhere cool, loosen clothing and give water.
Know heat stroke. Confusion, slurred speech, fainting or seizures, and very hot skin. This is a medical emergency: call 911 and cool the person right away.

Ask the crew

Who here is new or just back from time off this week?
Where is the closest shade and water from where you are working?
What would you do if a coworker started acting confused?

Picture this

On his third day, a new laborer keeps pace with the veteran crew in the afternoon heat. He gets confused and stumbles but says he is fine. A crewmate recognizes the signs, calls 911 and starts cooling him with water and ice. Quick action saves his life.

Print this page to use the sign-in sheet, or skip the paper and record attendance digitally in SafetyIQ.

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Talk leader: ______________ Date: ______________ Site: ______________