Longer hours and increasing climate levels are transforming work zones into dangerous heat zones. In 2011 there were approximately 4,2001 reported cases of injury and 612 reported deaths caused by extreme heat.
These numbers are shocking, period — even more so because they are 100-percent preventable. Ignoring early warning signs like mild heat discomfort, sweating or excessive thirst can quickly lead to heat-related illness (HRI) extremes, including heat stroke and even death. Planning and preparedness are no longer luxuries but necessities when it comes to HRI prevention.