By Michelle Ann Zoleta, Health & Safety Advice Manager,
HR and health & safety consultancy Peninsula Canada
Provinces across the country have been experiencing above-average temperatures, resulting in heat warnings. Ontario has had its fair share of extreme heat warnings, and now British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan are experiencing record-breaking heat waves of their own.
So far, there have been over 100 heat warnings and with tens of thousands of staff working outdoors in this industry, it’s crucial for employers to do everything they can do to keep staff safe. In fact, it is their legal responsibility to do so.
To address these challenges, employers can implement comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of staff.
Providing adequate hydration. Ensure that all staff have access to plenty of cool drinking water and encourage regular water breaks to prevent dehydration.
Schedule work strategically. Schedule staff to work during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. This will help to avoid peak hours under the sun.
Offering protective clothing. Encourage staff to wear lightweight, breathable, and light-coloured clothing, as well as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. Provide sunscreen to protect from harmful UV rays.
Implement a heat stress prevention program. It’s important to implement a comprehensive heat stress prevention program tailored to the specific needs of the worksite and tasks.
Have an emergency plan. All workers must be informed of the location of first-aid stations and be aware of emergency procedures. First-aid supplies should be stocked, and emergency contacts must be readily available.
A global leader in HR and health & safety consulting, Peninsula has been supporting small and medium businesses for 40 years. We are trusted by over 140,000 SMBs globally. In Canada, we helped over 6,500 SMBs with tailored HR documentation, 24/7 employer advice, and provide employment management software. We pride ourselves on delivering a service that mitigates risk, adds value, and allows businesses to focus their time on what matters most.
