Heat stress in the workplace

A brief guide

This leaflet is for employers whose workers may be at risk of heat stress in the workplace.

In many jobs heat stress is an issue all year round (eg in bakeries, compressed air tunnels, foundries and smelting operations) while other workers may only be at risk during hot summer months.

This guidance explains the effects of heat stress on the body and gives examples of situations where it may occur. It includes advice on what to look out for when carrying out your risk assessment and lists control measures that may reduce or remove the risks.

It does not address issues of thermal comfort in the workplace.