Protect your employees and business during extreme heat
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Extreme heat safety tips and resources for businesses
An extreme heat event happens during a prolonged period of hot and humid weather when temperatures are much higher than normal. This type of weather may lead to heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses for workers and can be life-threatening if precautions aren't taken. We are here to help protect your employees and get you back to business should you need to file a claim.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for extreme heat and keep your employees safe.
Before the temperature rises
- Keep an eye on the forecast and monitor the heat index.
- Educate employees on the dangers of heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Create an emergency plan with what to do in case of a heat-related incident.
- Prepare to keep cool. Where available, ensure that your air conditioning is functioning properly and portable fans are available.
- Plan for cooling stations or areas where shade, cool water, cooler temperatures and air circulation are available for worker recovery.
- Stock up on supplies. Have ample drinking water available, as well as electrolyte drinks and sunscreen.
During the heat wave
- Provide cool drinking water for employees and make sure water sources are easily accessible. Encourage employees to stay hydrated, even if they don't feel thirsty.
- Use fans and air conditioning to keep the air circulating. For indoor environments, ensure employees have access to good ventilation and air quality.
- Encourage employees to dress for the weather with lightweight, heat-resistant clothing for outdoor settings.
- Block out direct sun and provide shade when possible for outdoor work. Recommend that employees wear a hat and sunblock to help protect against sun damage.
- Have employees take frequent breaks in cool, shaded areas to reduce the risk of overheating.
- Adjust work schedules or shorten shifts to minimize time spent in the heat.
- Know the signs and ways to treat heat-related illnesses and frequently check in with employees.
Types of heat-related illnesses
Symptoms include:
How to treat:
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Symptoms include:
How to treat:
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Symptoms include:
How to treat:
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Be sure to notify our claims team immediately if an employee needs to file a claim, while mitigating any future risk.
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