Heat at work - guidance for workplaces

Background and scope of guidance

The increase in average ambient temperature expected with climate change can have a significant impact on workplaces. Extreme heat events can cause significant health issues such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other heat stress related illnesses. Higher temperatures for longer periods of time can also increase the risk of injuries due to fatigue, lack of concentration, poor decision making, and other factors. A reduction in productivity may also occur. Increasing temperatures may cause increased stress levels in workers, including workers involved in emergency services and outdoor workers who have to work altered time schedules to…