Extreme heat safety tips and resources for businesses

An extreme heat event happens during a prolonged period of hot and humid weather when temperatures are much higher than normal. This type of weather may lead to heat exhaustion and other heat-related illness for workers and can be life-threatening if precautions aren't taken. We are here to help protect your employees and get you back to business should you need to file a claim.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for extreme heat and keep your employees safe.
 

Before the temperature rises

1. Keep an eye on the forecast and monitor the heat index.
2. Educate employees on the dangers of heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
3. Create an emergency plan with what to do in case of a heat-related incident.
4. Prepare to keep cool. Where available, ensure that your air conditioning is functioning properly and portable fans are available.
5. Plan for cooling stations or areas where shade, cool water, cooler temperatures and air circulation are available for worker recovery.
6. Stock up on supplies. Have ample drinking water available, as well as electrolyte drinks and sunscreen. 

During the heat wave

1. Provide cool drinking water for employees and make sure water sources are easily accessible. Encourage employees to stay hydrated, even if they don't feel thirsty.
2. Use fans and air conditioning to keep the air circulating. For indoor environments, ensure employees have access to good ventilation and air quality.
3. Encourage employees to dress for the weather with lightweight, heat-resistant clothing for outdoor settings.
4. Block out direct sun and provide shade when possible for outdoor work. Recommend that employees wear a hat and sunblock to help protect against sun damage.  
5. Have employees take frequent breaks in cool, shaded areas to reduce the risk of overheating.
6. Adjust work schedules or shorten shifts to minimize time spent in the heat.
7. Know the signs and ways to treat heat-related illnesses and frequently check in with employees.

Types of heat-related illnesses

Be sure to notify our claims team immediately if an employee needs to file a claim, while mitigating any future risk.

Weather resource center

SOURCES:

FEMA, Red Cross, National Weather Service, OSHA 

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.