Working in excessive temperatures (heat or cold)

Heat Stress

Heat stress may occur in work environments where excessive temperatures are created by the work process (e.g. catering kitchens or working outdoors in very hot condition) and can lead to symptoms such as:

• poor concentration
• muscle cramps
• heat rash
• fainting
• heat exhaustion - fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache, moist skin
• heat stroke - hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions and eventual loss of consciousness

Managers responsible for activities where there is a risk of heat stress should carry out a risk assessment if the nature of the work activity or environment means there is a risk of heat stress. It is recommended that the HSE guidance on assessing risks associated with heat stress is followed. See www.hse.gov.uk/temperature/riskassessment.htm

If working outdoors, also refer to guidance on Working in the Sun

Cold Stress

Measures to control risk from cold environment includes:

• job rotation
• provision regular rest breaks in warm rest areas
• provision of suitable personal protective equipment

Please refer to the HSE website for further guidance on working in excessively cold environments:

Handling food in a cold environment: www.hse.gov.uk/food/chilled.htm

General guidance: www.hse.gov.uk/temperature/information/coldstress.htm

If you need further advice, contact OHSAS, e-mail safety or extn 2944.