WorkSafeBC warns employers to protect workers from heat stress and heat stroke
With heat alerts from Environment Canada, WorkSafeBC reminds employers they must take steps to prevent heat-related illnesses for indoor and outdoor workers.
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WorkSafeBC has issued a bulletin reminding employers of their responsibility to protect workers from heat-related illnesses as Environment Canada issues heat alerts across the province.
Heat stress and heat stroke are preventable and potentially life-threatening, particularly for workers in construction, agriculture, transportation, and public works. However, indoor workers in kitchens, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities without air conditioning are also at risk. Between 2021 and 2025, WorkSafeBC received 335 heat-related injury claims, with 47 in 2025 alone.
Employers must conduct risk assessments and develop safety plans that include providing cool drinking water, regular rest breaks, shady or cooled recovery areas, scheduling strenuous work during cooler times, improving ventilation, and rotating workers between hot and cool environments. Symptoms of heat stress include excessive sweating, muscle cramps, nausea, weakness, dizziness, agitation, and confusion.
Workers should drink water—a glass every 20 minutes—wear sunscreen and light, breathable clothing, be aware of personal health risks related to medications or conditions, and watch for signs of heat stress in themselves and co-workers. Employees are encouraged to report symptoms and speak up if conditions are unsafe. For questions, employers and workers can call WorkSafeBC at 604-276-3100 or toll-free at 1-888-621-7233.
The facts
How many heat-related injury claims did WorkSafeBC receive in 2025?
WorkSafeBC received 47 heat-related injury claims in 2025.
What are the symptoms of heat stress?
Symptoms of heat stress include excessive sweating, muscle cramps, nausea, weakness, dizziness, agitation, and confusion.
How often should workers drink water to prevent heat illness?
Workers should drink water—a glass every 20 minutes—to prevent heat-related illness.
What steps must employers take to protect workers from heat illness?
Employers must conduct risk assessments and develop safety plans that include providing cool drinking water, regular rest breaks, shady or cooled recovery areas, scheduling strenuous work during cooler times, improving ventilation, and rotating workers between hot and cool environments.
