Heat stress occurs when the body’s means of controlling its internal temperature starts to fail. Air temperature, work rate, humidity and work clothing are all factors which can cause heat stress. It may not be obvious to someone passing through the workplace that there is a risk of heat stress.
Conducting a Heat Stress Assessment is crucial for preventing heat-related illnesses by identifying and mitigating risks before they impact workers’ health. It provides the basis for developing heat management strategies, including engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective measures, to ensure safe working conditions.