HEAT STRESS AWARENESS TRAINING

This comprehensive heat stress training program addresses the growing concern of heat-related workplace injuries and illnesses caused by climate change effects experienced by Ontario workers. The course covers current and upcoming legislation including the proposed Bill 222, providing participants with a thorough understanding of workplace responsibilities for employers, supervisors, and workers. Participants will learn to identify key contributing factors to heat stress including environmental conditions, physical activity demands, inadequate hydration, and lack of acclimatization. The program emphasizes practical prevention strategies using the hierarchy of controls approach, from elimination and substitution to engineering controls, administrative measures, and personal protective equipment. Attendees will gain expertise in recognizing early warning signs and serious symptoms of heat stress, understanding various heat-related disorders from heat rash to life-threatening heat stroke, and implementing proper first aid measures. The training also covers monitoring techniques using tools like OHCOW's Heat Stress Calculator and Humidex measurements, while addressing the mental health impacts of heat exposure and providing actionable prevention strategies that workers can implement both at work and at home.