WorkSafeNB issues heat-related warning

June 25, 2020

In response to a recent heat alert issued by the Province of New Brunswick, WorkSafeNB is reminding workers to be mindful of heat-related risks.

The Department of Health has issued Level 1 and Level 2 heat alerts across the province daily since June 16, 2020.

Employers are advised to use the humidex as a guide to limit moderate to heavy work activities to cooler times of the day, such as early morning or evening.

WorkSafeNB also recommends workers learn to recognize and watch for signs of heat-related stress. These include:

• heat cramps (excessive sweating and painful muscle spasms)
• heat rash (tiny, raised blister-like rash on the skin)
• heat exhaustion (headache, dizziness and nausea)
• heat syncopy (fainting while standing)
• heat stroke (severe headache, confusion, loss of consciousness and flushed skin)

Tips for preventing overexposure to heat and sun:

• Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stress in yourself and your co-workers.
• Acclimatize your body to working in the heat and sun.
• Drink plenty of water(about two glasses of water before starting work and one cup (250 ml or more)) about every 15 to 20 minutes during work) and get adequate nutrition.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and drugs.
• Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabric.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat. If a hard hat is required, attach a piece of light-coloured fabric to the back and sides to shade your neck.
• Take rest breaks in a cool or ventilated area. Take more breaks during the hottest part of the day or when doing heavy work. Allow your body to cool down before beginning again.
• Schedule work to minimize heat exposure. Do the hardest physical work during the coolest part of the day.
• Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. You need to apply at least one ounce (29.58 ml) 30 minutes before sun exposure to ensure that you get the full SPF of a sunscreen. Re-apply it every two hours throughout the day. (Skin Cancer Foundation recommendation)

WorkSafeNB’s Guide to OHS Legislation portal and app offer key tips for staying healthy and safe while on the job. Visit to learn more about heat stress. Download the app by searching for “NB OHS Guide” on the App Store or Google Play.