In July, Idaho endured multiple days of excessive heat watch warnings as relentless triple-digit temperatures baked parts of the state. While the sun invites beaches and summer fun, working outside in the heat can pose health and safety risks.
Heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. according to the U.S. Department of Labor. In 2023, 207 deaths in the U.S. were attributed to heat-related causes — over two times the rate of people killed by rip currents, the second-most prevalent category as reported by Weather Related Fatality and Injury Statistics. Since heat does not require the presence of any particular geographic feature, it affects larger populations. According to Weather.gov’s Hazard Heat Report, none of the heat-related fatalities that occurred in 2023 were in Idaho; deaths mostly took place in the sun belt states like Arizona (100 deaths) and Nevada (33 deaths).
Source: National Weather Service
The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest figures, collected in 2021, show there were 36 work-related deaths attributed to heat exposure. This was only a portion of the 375 total deaths related to heat that year, according to the National Weather Statistics Report; nevertheless, it is important for both employers and workers to be mindful of the risks related to working on hot days and in extreme heat, as well as the necessary precautions.
Several occupations rely on outdoor settings to perform work tasks, often under direct sunlight, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Combining physical exertion and heat can lead to heat-exhaustion and/or heatstroke. Some of the industry and occupational groups that are required to work outdoors and are subject to weather concerns include:
- Construction workers including roofers, road crews and other construction professionals.
- Agriculture jobs such as farmworkers, orchard laborers and those involved in crop harvesting.
- Landscapers and groundskeepers.
- Utility and maintenance workers.
Coping strategies for outdoor workers
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has online resources dedicated to heat illness prevention for both employers and workers at osha.gov/heat. Recommended strategies for staying healthy and safe while working in the heat include:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration exacerbates heat-related risks.
- Take frequent breaks: Rest in shaded areas to cool down. Avoid continuous exposure to the sun.
- Use protective gear: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. Use sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Know the signs of heat illness: Be aware of symptoms such as an increased heart rate, nausea, headaches and dizziness. Seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s heat safety tool app helps calculate worksite heat levels and associated risks. Available in both English and Spanish, it also provides recommendations to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Craig.Shaul@labor.idaho.gov, research analyst supervisor
Idaho Department of Labor
208-696-2150
This project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor as part of the Workforce Information Grant (48%) and matched/dedicated funds (52%) totaling $704,259.