Heat Stress: When Is Hot Too Hot?

As everyone endures extreme temperatures this summer, it’s important to stay safe when spending time in hot environments, especially places like kitchens and bakeries where there is little air circulation. Heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps are illnesses categorized under the term “heat stress,” which happens when the body is unable to cool itself off through sweating.

Workers at risk of heat stress include outdoor workers and workers in hot environments such as chefs, bakery workers, and anyone in the restaurant industry. “Workers at greater risk of heat stress include those who are 65 years of age or older, are overweight, have heart disease or high blood pressure, or take medications that may be affected by extreme heat,” according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).  Overall, people that work in environments with little air circulation have a higher risk of experiencing heat stress. 

Below are indicators and tips from…