Heat at work is more than discomfort. Humidity, heavy tasks, protective clothing and poor airflow can make it difficult for the body to release heat. Indoor kitchens and workshops may be hazardous as well as outdoor construction and agricultural work. Air temperature alone does not describe the full risk.
Recognize an emergency
Confusion, unusual behaviour, seizures or loss of consciousness after heat exposure require emergency help. In Iran call 115. Move the person away from heat, start cooling with available safe methods and follow emergency instructions. Stay with them. Do not give drinks to someone who is not fully alert or cannot swallow safely. Sweating does not rule out dangerous heat illness.
Design prevention around the work
WHO and WMO’s August 2025 report emphasizes locally adapted workplace heat plans. Consider workload, radiant heat, humidity, clothing and ventilation together. Schedule demanding tasks in cooler periods where possible, provide shade and cooled rest areas, reduce exposure and review whether the work process can be changed. A plan should identify who can stop unsafe work and how emergency assistance is reached.
Water, breaks and gradual adaptation
Workers need accessible drinking water and opportunities to drink and rest. New workers and people returning after an absence need a gradual, supervised increase in heat exposure. Fluid needs vary. People with fluid restrictions, heart or kidney disease or medicines affecting heat tolerance should ask their clinician for an individual plan. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice. Water alone cannot make an unsafe environment safe.
Prepare for an occupational consultation
Record the task, working hours, protective clothing, indoor or outdoor conditions, access to cooling and the timing of symptoms. Mention whether coworkers are affected and bring your medication list and relevant history. A consultation can guide assessment; formal workplace safety and fitness decisions require an appropriate evaluation. This educational overview is not an emergency protocol or an individual treatment plan.
Sources checked on 27 October 2026. Source publication dates are listed below.