Heat Stress Safety Awareness

What is heat stress

Heat stress occurs when the human body is unable to remove excess heat, resulting to an email increase in the body's temperature causing heat -related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Why This Matters

Heat stress is not just about feeling uncomfortable. It can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, organ failure, and even death. In Singapore's hot and humid environment, every worker is at risk, especially those working outdoors or wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Your body is your most important tool. Protect it.

Know the Warning Signs

Early Symptoms

Excessive sweating

Thirst and dry mouth

Fatigue or weakness

Headache

Dizziness

Muscle cramps

Serious Symptoms

Confusion or unusual behavior

Nausea or vomiting

Rapid heartbeat

Hot, dry skin

Loss of consciousness

If you notice these signs in yourself or a co-worker, stop work immediately and seek help.

Protect Yourself

✅ Drink water frequently – don't wait until you're thirsty.

✅ Take scheduled rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

✅ Wear light, breathable clothing where possible.

✅ Follow the buddy system – look out for each other.

✅ Report any symptoms immediately to your supervisor.

✅ Acclimatize gradually when returning from leave or cooler climates.

Remember the "WATER" Rule

W – Watch for symptoms

A – Avoid overexertion during peak heat

T – Take regular water breaks

E – Encourage your buddy to stay hydrated

R – Rest in cool shaded areas

Here is MOM Heat Stress Framework for Outdoor Work.

Heat Stress Management

Heat Stress at Work 

Working in Singapore’s hot and humid weather can put you at an increased risk of heat stress.

Heat stress occurs when the body is unable to remove excess body heat, and this excess accumulated heat then harms the body.

Heat stress related illnesses include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, with heat stroke being potentially fatal.

Preventing Heat Stress

Heat stress must not be overlooked, and you should take the necessary measures to protect yourself from heat-related risks.

Prevention Tips:

Do not over-exert yourself in the first two weeks of work, especially if you have just arrived from a cooler country.

• Acclimatise yourself to the hot weather.
• Wear loose-fitting and light-coloured clothes when outdoors.
• Work under the shade where possible.
• Drink lots of water – at least 500ml (one bottle) every hour.
• Take regular breaks in cool shaded areas.
• Sponge yourself with water during breaks or meals.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle with proper meals and sleep.

Helping Someone with Heat Stroke

If you notice someone with signs of heat stroke, call 995 for an ambulance immediately. While waiting for the ambulance, you should:

• Move the person to a shady or cooler area;
• Loosen or remove the person’s clothing;
• Apply cool water and fan on the person; and
• Place ice packs under the person’s armpits and groin area.

For more information

Check out WSH Guidelines on Heat Stress Management.

Check out ABC Checklist -Working Safely in Hot Environment