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Heat Stress Management for the Vulnerable Worker

May 23, 2025 | BCSP Staff Guide

Heat Stress Management for the Vulnerable Worker

Tailoring controls without creating division

In many industries, hazards associated with heat come with the territory.

While the potential for heat stress can exist for various types of workers, some, based on their role, location, or individual characteristics, are more vulnerable than others. When it comes to beating the heat, one size doesn’t necessarily fit all.

Sure, there are some universal measures that can protect the workforce at large. But some individuals may need more protection than others. How can you ensure everyone is safeguarded from the hazards they face without making some feel as though others are receiving preferential treatment?

Here are some tips to avoid division among your team:

Recognize the Risks

Adequately protecting workers starts with an understanding of their specific needs. Not everyone will require the same level of protection. Some workers may naturally need more frequent breaks, hydration, or PPE.

For instance, a construction worker jackhammering under the blazing sun needs different protections than a colleague working inside a largely completed structure. Workers who have certain medical conditions and are more susceptible to heat stress may need different accommodations than other workers. It’s not about offering preferential treatment to one individual over another, but assessing the risks for each person and task and then implementing controls to protect them.

Communicate Openly

Good communication can often prevent issues before they arise. Explain to your team why controls may differ in some instances, and assure team members that risks have been thoroughly evaluated and controls implemented to meet the specific needs.

Avoid Singling Out Individual Workers

If a worker needs special accommodations related to heat because of a health condition, do your best to provide them without drawing unneeded attention to the individual. Workers should have a confidential avenue to request these accommodations.

Provide Basic, Universal Protections

While some controls need to be tailored to individual workers or roles, others are universal and should apply to every individual. Among these should be regular access to shade, readily available hydration, and training regarding best practices for working in the heat and for recognizing signs of heat stress in themselves and their colleagues. Make sure all employees are provided with these basics.

Adjust the Work Schedule

Some of the risk for division may be mitigated by strategically scheduling work assignments. Arranging tasks for cooler hours of the day or regularly rotating workers can reduce the amount of time they spend in hot conditions. Through proactive scheduling, employers can demonstrate concern for worker well-being.

Make It a Team Effort

Highlight the importance of each team member and function to getting the job done, and reinforce that accommodations are not about showing favoritism, but about ensuring everyone is afforded the opportunity to complete their tasks safely. Encourage an environment of teamwork in which workers understand each other’s value, look after one another, and have the best interests of one another in mind.

In Summary

Employers have a duty to protect their workers from known hazards, including those associated with heat. This can look different based on the various job roles and individuals within an organization. Promoting a shared culture of safety reduces the perception that some groups are receiving preferential treatment.

For more resources on heat stress, check out the Guide to Heat Stress Prevention and Engaging Workers in Mitigating Heat Stress.

Tags: Heat Stress Heat Stress Management Heat Stroke Heat-Related Illness Heat Exhaustion