How to Prevent Heat Stress on the Job Site

Working through the summer heat is part of the job — but that doesn’t mean it’s safe. For tradespeople out in the field or near high-temperature equipment, heat stress isn’t just a discomfort. It’s a real hazard that can impact your health, safety, and productivity.

Each year, an estimated 220 Canadian workers are harmed by occupational heat stress, according to the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW). That number is expected to climb as heat waves become more frequent and intense.

Whether you're climbing poles, maintaining lines, or working around energized equipment, staying cool and protected matters.

Why Tradespeople Face Higher Heat Risks

Anyone working outdoors or in hot environments faces the risk of heat stress, but for linemen, utility workers, and other skilled trades, the exposure is constant — and the stakes are higher.

Some quick facts:

  • 1,200 Canadians were harmed by extreme heat events between 1900 and 2005 (Canadian Disaster Database)
  • Toronto recorded an average of 120 heat-related fatalities per year from 1954 to 2000
  • Environment Canada predicts more days over 30°C/86°F in cities across Canada and the U.S.

The hotter it gets, the greater the risk.

What Is Heat Stress?

Heat stress happens when your body struggles to cool itself down. It’s triggered by high temperatures, physical exertion, direct sun, and even non-breathable clothing. When your internal temperature climbs too high, it can lead to serious health issues if not addressed quickly.

Key contributors include:

  • Working in hot weather or full sun
  • Wearing heavy or poorly ventilated gear
  • Performing strenuous tasks without breaks
  • Poor hydration or lack of airflow

And the impact is measurable. The National Institute of Public Health of Quebec found that for every 1°C rise in daily maximum temperature, heat illness claims go up by 28–51%.

What Heat Stress Can Do to Your Body

The effects of heat stress range from mild to severe. Even early symptoms can compromise your performance on the job.

Some of the most common issues include:

  • Dehydration
  • Muscle cramps
  • Heat exhaustion
  • Heatstroke
  • Kidney strain
  • Cardiovascular complications

According to Flouris et al. (2018), 15% of workers regularly exposed to heat stress end up experiencing serious heat-related illness. That’s not a stat you can ignore.

How to Stay Safe in the Heat

Preventing heat stress isn’t just about drinking more water — it’s about working smarter, wearing the right gear, and giving your body a chance to cool down.

Here’s what helps:

  • Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces
  • Hydrate throughout the day — not just at the start or end of your shift
  • Avoid sugary drinks and heavy meals that can raise your core temperature
  • Choose lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking FR clothing
  • Keep an eye on your crew — early signs of heat stress are easier to catch in others

Why Your FR Clothing Matters in Hot Weather

On job sites with flash fire or arc hazards, flame-resistant clothing is non-negotiable. But not all FR gear is made to handle the heat.

The wrong gear can trap moisture, limit airflow, and raise your risk of overheating — all while leaving you feeling weighed down.

That’s why it’s important to choose FR workwear designed for hot conditions, with features that actively support heat relief:

  • Breathable fabrics that release heat instead of trapping it
  • Permanent moisture-wicking technology that keeps sweat off your skin
  • Ergonomic designs that give you room to move and allow air circulation

The right FR gear doesn’t just check the safety box — it helps keep you sharp, focused, and ready for the next task.

MWG’s FR Gear Built for the Heat

At MWG Apparel, we design flame-resistant workwear that performs in extreme conditions — including high heat and humidity. Our hot-weather solutions are lightweight, breathable, and engineered to reduce heat stress without compromising protection.

Explore our cooling gear collections:

All fabrics are third-party tested to meet North American safety standards and built to handle the demands of tough summer shifts.

Need help finding the right gear for high-heat conditions?
Contact us to explore cooling FR options that keep you protected, comfortable, and compliant — no matter how hot it gets.

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