OSHA's Heat Safety Awareness Week (May 19 - 23, 2025) is a timely reminder for employers to take proactive steps to protect their workers from heat-related illnesses. With the increasing summer temperatures and humidity amplifying the risk, outdoor and non-air-conditioned indoor workplaces can become dangerous quickly.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are preventable. OSHA emphasizes three key words: Water. Rest. Shade. Employers should ensure workers have frequent breaks, access to cool water, and shaded or air-conditioned recovery areas.

In Louisiana, where heat stress can hit fast, it's critical to train employees on recognizing early symptoms—like dizziness, headaches, and excessive sweating—and to have emergency response procedures in place. Acclimatization is also essential; gradually increasing workloads for new or returning workers helps their bodies adjust.

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