HEAT STRESS MITIGATION PLAN
SECTION 1 – PROJECT INFORMATION
SECTION 2 – HAZARD & POTENTIAL RISKS

Hazard Statement

Workers may be exposed to high temperatures, direct sunlight, humidity, and physically demanding work which can lead to heat stress, dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. Environmental factors such as high air temperature, radiant heat from the sun or machinery, high humidity, and low air movement significantly increase risk.

Contributing Factors

  • Physical exertion (Metabolic heat)
  • Non-breathable PPE or heavy clothing
  • Lack of acclimatization to heat
  • Individual factors (health, medications)
  • Insufficient water intake
  • Direct exposure to sunlight

Potential Risks

  • Dehydration & Electrolyte loss
  • Heat Cramps (Muscle spasms)
  • Dizziness, Fatigue & Syncope
  • Heat Exhaustion (Systemic stress)
  • Heat Stroke (Life-threatening)
  • Reduced concentration / Increased accidents
SECTION 3 – MITIGATION & CONTROL MEASURES
1. Hydration
Workers must drink water regularly throughout the shift. Water stations will be available and accessible at all times. Encourage workers to drink before feeling thirsty.
2. Rest Breaks
Additional cool-down breaks will be provided during high temperatures. Workers should rest in shaded or cool areas when required.
3. Monitoring Weather Conditions
Supervisors will monitor temperature and weather forecasts daily. High-risk work may be rescheduled during extreme heat conditions.
4. Worker Monitoring
Supervisors and crew members will monitor each other for signs of heat stress. Workers experiencing symptoms must report immediately.
5. Proper PPE & Clothing
Workers should wear light, breathable, and appropriate clothing where possible. Hard hats and required PPE must still be worn.
6. Work Planning
Heavy physical tasks should be rotated between workers where practical. Reduce prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when possible.
7. Training & Awareness
Workers will be informed about signs and symptoms of heat stress. Toolbox talks will be conducted during hot weather periods.
8. Acclimatization
New workers, or those returning from an extended absence, will have their heavy workload gradually increased over their first few days on site to build heat tolerance.
SECTION 4 – BEVERAGE RESTRICTIONS & DIET

Energy Drinks & Caffeine Warning

Energy drinks and high-caffeine beverages should be avoided during extreme heat.

Energy drinks often contain significantly more caffeine than a standard cup of coffee. High caffeine intake can lead to dehydration and put additional strain on the heart when combined with heavy physical workloads and high temperatures. Workers are encouraged to prioritize water and electrolyte-replenishing drinks instead.

SECTION 5 – EMERGENCY RESPONSE
  • Move affected worker to a shaded/cool area.
  • Provide cool drinking water if conscious.
  • Remove excess PPE if safe to do so.
  • Contact First Aid immediately.
  • Call emergency services (911) if symptoms are severe or signs of heat stroke are present.
SECTION 6 – SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF HEAT STRESS

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms

Heavy sweating Body's attempt to cool down; skin may feel cool and clammy.
Weakness or dizziness Feeling faint, lightheaded, or exhausted due to fluid loss.
Nausea or vomiting Feeling sick to the stomach; loss of appetite or actual vomiting.
Muscle cramps Painful muscle spasms usually in the legs or abdomen.
Rapid, weak pulse Heart working harder to pump blood to the skin to cool off.
Headache Throbbing pain often associated with severe dehydration.

Heat Stroke (Emergency)

High body temp (>40°C) Core internal temperature reaches life-threatening levels.
Hot, red, dry skin Body has stopped sweating; skin feels very hot and looks flushed.
Confusion or Seizures Mental status changes, slurred speech, agitation, or tremors.
Loss of consciousness Fainting or inability to wake up. CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY.
Rapid, strong pulse Heart racing to compensate for extreme heat and lack of fluids.
Dizziness / Fainting Sudden collapse or inability to stand due to heat exposure.
SECTION 7 – WORKER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have been informed of the Heat Stress Mitigation Plan and understand the controls and emergency response procedures.

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SECTION 8 – SUPERVISOR REVIEW & SIGN-OFF
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CANWIDE STEEL Ltd. · HEAT STRESS MITIGATION PLAN · FORM #HSMP-01 · REV. 01