Occupational exposure to heat can result in injuries, disease, reduced productivity, and death. In addition, there is evidence that heat stress is an increasing problem for many workers, particularly those located in densely populated areas closer to the equator where temperatures are expected to rise in relation to the changing climate. This guidelines describes what you, as an employer, may need to do to protect your employees from heat stress in the workplace. It will also be useful to employees and their safety representatives. It tells you about the risks to the body from overheating when working in hot environments and gives practical guidance on how to avoid it; personal protective equipment and clothing that can be used to control heat stress.

In many jobs, heat stress is an issue all year round but this information also applies during the hot summer months where there may be an increased risk of heat stress for some workers who works outdoor. The employer and your employees must be aware of how to work safely in heat, the factors that can lead to heat stress, and how to reduce the risk of it occurring.