Heat Stress Prevention Plan
A comprehensive procedure to protect workers from heat-related illnesses through environmental monitoring, hydration management, work/rest cycling, and emergency preparedness.
The purpose of this Heat Stress Prevention Plan (HSPP) is to establish a systematic framework for identifying, evaluating, and controlling heat stress hazards in industrial work environments. By implementing proactive monitoring, mandatory hydration practices, and enforced rest intervals, this plan aims to eliminate heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other occupational heat illnesses — ensuring every employee returns home safe at the end of the day.
This SOP applies to all operational areas — both outdoor (loading docks, construction sites, yard work) and indoor (warehouses, production floors, foundries, bakeries) — where ambient temperature, humidity, radiant heat sources, or personal protective equipment create a risk of heat stress. It covers all personnel directly employed or contracted, and must be reviewed whenever the heat index exceeds the thresholds defined in the project’s heat stress matrix.
- Drink 250–500 ml of water or electrolyte beverage every 15–20 minutes during hot work. Never rely on thirst alone — schedule water breaks.
- Follow the work/rest schedule from the heat index chart. A mandatory 10- to 15-minute rest in a shaded/cooled area is required after every 90 minutes of moderate heat stress work.
- Use the buddy system: workers must watch each other for early signs of heat illness (headache, nausea, dizziness, irritability). Report immediately.
- Allow a 5–7 day acclimatization period for new employees or those returning from prolonged time off. Ramp up exposure gradually.
- If a worker collapses, is confused, or has hot/dry skin (no sweating), call 911 immediately. Begin active cooling: move to shade, remove outer clothing, apply cold compresses to neck, armpits, and groin.
- Calibrated thermometer / hygrometer (digital, ±0.5°C accuracy)
- Wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) monitor or heat index chart
- Potable water supply and electrolyte sports drinks (cups or personal bottles)
- Portable cooling stations (shade tents, fans, misters, or air-conditioned break rooms)
- First aid kit with instant cold packs, oral rehydration salts, and thermometer
- Personal cooling gear (cooling vests, neck wraps, lightweight breathable uniforms)
- Communication device (two-way radio or mobile phone) for heat-related emergencies