Author: Stacey Markel, CHCM, CHSP, HEM

As temperatures rise across the country, so do the risks. Extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the U.S., and it’s becoming more dangerous each year. According to OSHA, dozens of workers die and thousands more suffer serious illness annually due to heat exposure. This month is a call to action for employers, caregivers and communities to prioritize heat safety on job sites, in care settings and beyond.

Heat-related illness is preventable with the right planning and awareness. Workers in construction, agriculture, healthcare and delivery services are especially vulnerable, as are patients receiving hospice or home health care. Without proper precautions, heat stress can escalate quickly into a life-threatening emergency.

Preventing Heat Illness at Work

Employers are legally responsible for protecting workers from known heat hazards. Steps employers should take:

1. Creating a written Heat Illness Prevention Plan
2. Providing cool drinking water, rest breaks and shaded or air-conditioned areas
3. Training workers and supervisors to recognize symptoms of heat illness
4. Monitoring new or returning workers for acclimatization

To learn more, view the full OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention Campaign and explore Employer Responsibilities.

Caring for Hospice & Home Health Patients

Patients receiving hospice or home health care, especially the elderly or those with chronic conditions, are particularly vulnerable to heat-related complications. Essential tips for caregivers include:

• Keep indoor spaces cool using fans, air conditioning or closed blinds
• Monitor hydration and medication interactions closely
• Encourage light, breathable clothing and provide cool compresses when needed
• Adjust care routines to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day
• Check in frequently, especially with patients who live alone or have limited mobility

Additional Resource

Looking for a practical way to assess your heat safety readiness? Download a free Heat Illness Prevention Checklist to help evaluate risks, track hydration and rest schedules, document training and emergency plans, and more. This tool is ideal for toolbox talks, safety audits and compliance tracking.

Reach Out to an Advisor

From analyzing prevention plans and identifying environmental risk factors to training teams on OSHA compliance, our advisors bring practical, industry-informed guidance to help you protect your people and operations. Contact us today to learn more.