Occupational Health and Safety Standard Operating … Occupational Health and Safety…………… ... The TCDSB Hot Weather Procedure identifies a series of hazard controls that

Toronto Catholic District School Board OHS-SOP-014 Revision: 01

Occupational Health and Safety Standard Operating Procedures

HOT WEATHER

TORONTO CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

Responsible Department:

TCDSB Occupational Health and Safety

Document Type:

Program Document state:

Revision

Prepared By

TCDSB Occupational Health and Safety

Function

Accident Prevention Date (DD/MM/YYYY)

01/11/2016

Document ID:

OHS-SOP-014 Original Date:

October 2006

Revision date:

February, 2017

Revision number:

01


pg. 2

REVISION LOG

REVISION DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGES

01 01/11/2016 Updated to reflect the new provincial harmonized heat alert system and to incorporate existing TCDSB classroom and facility procedures and best practices, thereby reducing the impact of hot weather on students and staff

02 03 04 05


pg. 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 PURPOSE ..................................................................................................................................... 4

2.0 BACKGROUND AND SCOPE .......................................................................................................... 4 3.0 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, STANDARDS, DOCUMENTS ................................................................. 5

4.0 DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................................... 6

5.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ...................................................................................................... 6

5.1 Communications Department ................................................................................................ 7 5.2 School Administrators ............................................................................................................ 7 5.3 Facilities Custodial Operations and Maintenance Department Supervisors: ............................ 7 5.4 Workers ................................................................................................................................. 7 5.5 Occupational Health and Safety………………..……..…………………………………………………………………...7

6.0 PROCEDURE ................................................................................................................................ 8

6.1 Heat Protocol for School Administrators ................................................................................ 8

7.0 COMMUNICATION AND AWARENESS .......................................................................................... 9

8.0 EVALUATION ............................................................................................................................... 9

9.0 APPENDICES .............................................................................................................................. 10

Appendix A: TCDSB Heat Protocol in Schools, 2006 Appendix B: Provincial Harmonized Heat Warning System Appendix C: City of Toronto's Hot Weather Response Plan, 2016 Appendix D: Heat Stress Awareness, Ontario Ministry of Labour Appendix E: Heat Stress Awareness Guide, OHSCO Appendix F: Heat Stress Awareness for TCDSB workers


pg. 4

1.0 PURPOSE All School Boards have a general duty to protect students and workers from hazards in schools and other Board workplaces, including weather-related hazards that may impact school operations such as heat stress, particularly during the hot summer months. The TCDSB Hot Weather Procedure increases the awareness level of all TCDSB workers to heat-related illness during heat warnings issued by Toronto Public Health and outlines a series of practical measures that schools and Board departments can take to help prevent discomfort and heat-related illness for students and staff. The TCDSB Hot Weather Procedure also helps the Facilities Department support their workers involved in custodial operations, maintenance, and repairs during the summer months. 2.0 BACKGROUND AND SCOPE

2.1 Background The majority of TCDSB facilities, especially schools, are open year-round. Many buildings accommodate programs in the summer months such as daycares, focus on youth camps, and summer school classes. The summer is also an extremely busy period for TCDSB Facilities custodial and maintenance staff involved in cleaning, repairs, renewal and capital work, much of which can only be done in the short window when students and other regular building occupants are not present. In the October 18, 2006 meeting of the Committee of the Whole Board, the Board approved a document titled “TCDSB Heat Protocol in Schools”. This document outlined a series of responses and strategies to heat alerts and extreme heat alerts declared by the City of Toronto Medical Officer of Health (Appendix A). In May 2016, the City of Toronto Hot Weather Response Plan (HWRP) was updated to reflect a provincial harmonized heat alert system (Appendix B). The City of Toronto HWRP was created to protect vulnerable people from the health impacts of extreme heat, such as young children, seniors, the homeless and people with pre-existing illnesses or chronic diseases (Appendix C).

Toronto Public Health (TPH) receives weather forecasts from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) in advance of issuing a Heat Warning. Extended Heat Warnings are issued if conditions are forecasted to continue for 3 or more days.

Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), there is no maximum regulated temperature in the workplace; however, Employers are required to take all precautions reasonable to protect workers.


pg. 5

Occupations that are commonly at risk of heat stress include firefighters, miners, welders, steel workers, kitchen staff and outdoor workers that work in construction, roofing, landscaping and farming. Heat stress measures are not meant to stop work altogether, but to allow workers to continue to work safely.

While high physical exertion is a primary risk factor for heat stress, other factors such as humidity, temperature, clothing (including personal protective equipment), and the body’s ability to cool itself also contribute to whether or not a person will suffer heat stress, and to what degree.

The Ministry of Labor enforces the OHSA and has created heat stress guidelines (Appendix D). The Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario (OHSCO) also has a reference document on heat stress awareness (Appendix E)

2.2 Scope

The TCDSB Hot Weather Procedure applies to all TCDSB students, workers, visitors and building occupants.

The following TCDSB employee groups have been identified as having an elevated risk of suffering heat stress due to the nature of their job duties (Appendix F):

• Custodial staff conducting summer clean-up• Maintenance staff working outdoors or on school roofs during the summer• Supervisory Staff / Project Coordinators (when working in the field during the summer)• Print Shop Staff during the summer• Teaching staff, particularly during physical education activities, outdoor field trips, and yard duty

during heat warnings

The TCDSB Hot Weather Procedure identifies a series of hazard controls that lowers the likelihood of heat-related illness for students and employee groups at risk.

3.0 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, STANDARDS, DOCUMENTS

The following legislation, standards, documents and information apply to the Hot Weather Procedure and were referenced during its creation:

• Occupational Health and Safety Act, R.S.O. 1990;

• Heat Protocol in Schools, TCDSB, 2006

• Heat Stress Awareness Guide, Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario, 2009


pg. 6

• Heat Warnings and Extended Heat Warnings, City of Toronto - http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=faf1ebfc2bb31410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD

• Hot Weather Response Plan, City of Toronto, 2016

4.0 DEFINITIONS

Definitions from the Occupational Health and Safety Act

Supervisor: a person who has charge of a workplace or authority over a worker

Worker: means any other the following but does not include an inmate of a correctional institution or like institution or facility who participates inside the institution or facility in a work project or rehabilitation program:

• A person who performs work or supplies services for monetary compensation. • A secondary school student who performs work or supplies services for no monetary

compensation under a work experience program authorized by the school board that operates the school in which the student is enrolled.

• A person who performs work or supplies services for no monetary compensation under a program approved by a college of applied arts and technology, university or other post-secondary institution.

• A person who receives training from an employer, but who, under the Employment Standards Act, 2000, is not an employee for the purposes of that Act because the conditions set out in subsection 1 (2) of that Act have been met.

• Such other persons as may be prescribed who perform work or supply services to an employer for no monetary compensation;

Workplace: means any land, premises, location or thing at, upon, in or near which a worker works

5.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Safety is a shared responsibility. The successful implementation of the TCDSB’s Hot Weather Procedure requires participation and commitment from all staff. The roles and responsibilities of each party are outlined below:

5.1 Communications Department • Forward all communications from the City of Toronto regarding Heat Warnings and Extended

Heat Warnings to all Board employees and other stakeholders (with a TCDSB email address) via email

http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=faf1ebfc2bb31410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD

http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=faf1ebfc2bb31410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD


pg. 7

5.2 School Administrators (Principals / Vice-Principals)

• Take all reasonable precautions when notices of Heat Warnings and / or Extended Heat Warnings are received

• Make frequent announcements to staff and students to drink plenty of water

• Adjust school operations and activities as needed

• Provide Heat Stress Awareness information and instruction to all teaching and non-teaching school staff at least annually (preferably in May)

5.3 Facilities Custodial Operations and Maintenance Department Supervisors

• Provide on-going resources, information and reminders, especially during warm weather months (i.e. May - September) of best practices to prevent heat stress;

• Provide guidance and support to custodial and maintenance workers to reschedule and / or re-

organize work where required (e.g. when a Heat Warning or Extended Heat Warning has been issued);

• Proactively check the City of Toronto website for Heat Warnings to ensure Warnings are

communicated to workers in a timely manner (as alerts from the Communications Department may not be sent until after Custodial and Maintenance staff have begun their workday).

5.4 Workers

• Participate in and / or receive any training, instruction or information provided by the Employer and Supervisors regarding heat stress awareness;

• Be familiar with signs of heat stress and heat stroke (in oneself and others);

• Stop work immediately and report to their Supervisor for assistance if they experience any symptoms of heat stress.

• Follow any school or work operation adjustments during hot weather as directed by their Supervisor

5.5 Occupational Health and Safety Department

• Update the How Weather Procedure as new information becomes available; • Provide consultation and guidance to Supervisors conducting accident investigations for heat

stress related injuries and illness.


pg. 8

6.0 PROCEDURE

6.1 Heat Protocol for School Administrators School Administrators will implement the following control measures and strategies when a Heat Warning or Extended Heat Warning (respectively) has been issued by Toronto Public Health:

CITY OF TORONTO MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH

HEAT WARNING DECLARATION

TCDSB Communications Department will forward all communications from Toronto Public Health, via e-mail to workers and other TCDSB stakeholders with active TCDSB email addresses, that a Heat Warning has been declared

Principals will make frequent announcements reminding staff and students to drink plenty of water.

Personal water bottles will be allowed at student desks and outside if necessary Staff will be asked to close south-facing window coverings during the day If feasible, computers and lights will be turned off If computers must be turned on, computer use will be limited to the earliest hours of

the school day Schools will limit outdoor physical education activities to the early morning Since the gym tends to be cooler, some outdoor physical education activities will be

scheduled in the gym Where there are cooling centers in the school such as an air-conditioned library or

classroom(s), students and staff will access these cooling centers on a rotation basis throughout the day


EXTENDED HEAT WARNING DECLARATION

Same steps as outlined under Heat Warning Declaration, plus All outdoor physical activity will be cancelled. Track and Field days will be rescheduled to

rain days. Schools will consider temporary modifications to their local student dress code in

keeping with the guiding principles of TCDSB Policy S.S. 07, Dress Code for Pupils Policy If the school has mechanical ventilation with no operable windows and the mechanical

ventilation malfunctions, school closure under TCDSB Policy A.16 Emergency School Closure, will be considered.


pg. 9

7.0 COMMUNICATION AND AWARENESS The Hot Weather Standard Operating Procedure will be communicated to the following staff:

• All Principals, Vice-Principals and Facilities Management (including Capitol and Renewal departments)

• All Principals and Facilities Supervisors shall use the information provided in Section 6.0 and the Appendices of this SOP as training / instruction / information for their workers. At a minimum, workers shall be made aware of the following:

- The definition of heat stress and other heat-related maladies (i.e. heat rash, heat stroke) - Signs and symptoms of heat stress - Heat stress treatment and prevention tips - The Provincial Harmonized Heat Warning and Information System

• Principals shall provide heat stress awareness information to all school staff at least annually.

Facilities management shall provide heat stress awareness information to unionized facilities staff periodically, such as during Head Caretaker meetings, Maintenance Meetings, March Break training, and via on-going meetings between workers and their Service Quality Supervisors, and non-unionized facilities staff (who visit school sites) at least annually.

8.0 EVALUATION The Hot Weather SOP will be reviewed at least annually by the Occupational Health and Safety Department. Any revisions will be done in consultation with the respective TCDSB Joint Health and Safety Committees.

CITY OF TORONTO DECLARES AN EMERGENCY

SEVERE AND PROLONGED HEAT WAVE THAT LEADS TO POWER OR WATER SHORTAGES

INCREASED MORTALITY RATES, STRAINS ON HEALTHCARE SERVICES

TCDSB will activate the School Emergency Response Plan and Emergency Operation Center (EOC)

School closures under TCDSB Policy A.16 Emergency School Closure, will be considered in consultation with TDSB, the Ministry of Education and Toronto Public Health.


pg. 10

9.0 APPENDICES Appendix A: TCDSB Heat Protocol in Schools, 2006

Appendix B: Provincial Harmonized Heat Warning Information System

Appendix C: City of Toronto’s Hot Weather Response Plan, 2016

Appendix D: Heat Stress Awareness, Ontario Ministry of Labour Appendix E: Heat Stress Awareness, Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario

Appendix F: Heat Stress Awareness for TCDSB workers

Public

TO: COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE BOARD OCTOBER 18, 2006

FROM: DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

SUBJECT: TCDSB HEAT PROTOCOL IN SCHOOLS

Origin:

Arising out of the Human Resources, Program and Religious Affairs Committee meeting of May 31, 2006, staff was directed to develop a heat protocol for TCDSB schools.

Executive Summary:

This report recommends a heat protocol for TCDSB schools that would come into effect when the City of Toronto Medical Officer of Health declares a heat alert.

Comments:

1. The Board has an approved protocol for severe weather conditions that addressesschool response when cold winter weather produces temperatures that could lead tofrostbite.

2. There are two heat alert systems in Ontario that are issued to the public when thecombination of high temperature and high humidity leads to increased discomfort andgreater risk of heat stress to vulnerable members of the population.

3. Most municipalities in Ontario have heat alert systems that are based uponEnvironment’s Canada’s temperature and humidity chart (Appendix A, Table 1).When temperatures are expected to exceed 30 ° C and the humidex values areexpected to exceed 40 ° C, Environment Canada issues a Humidex Advisory. Thehigher the humidex, the more difficult it is for perspiration to evaporate and cool thebody.

4. The City of Toronto has established its own unique heat alert system that is basedupon the relationship between weather conditions and increased mortality ratesamong vulnerable segments of our population such as senior citizens, infants,preschool children and the homeless.

5. In 2001, the City of Toronto Public Health Department partnered with the Universityof Delaware to develop a heat alert system specifically for Toronto. The City ofToronto Medical Officer of Health will issue a heat alert when there is a 65 percentlikelihood of more deaths than would be expected on a normal day. An extreme heat

APPENDIX A

- 2 - alert is declared when there is a 90 percent likelihood of excess mortality than what is expected on a normal day.

6. The City of Toronto keeps a record of all heat alerts. There were a total of nine heat

alerts and eight extreme heat alerts in Toronto during the period of May to September 2006 (Appendix A, Table 2).

7. The proposed TCDSB Heat Protocol would be activated upon the declaration of a

heat alert by the City of Toronto Medical Officer of Health (Appendix B) Recommendation:

That the following TCDSB Heat Protocol be approved:


HEAT ALERT DECLARATION

TCDSB Communications Department will send an advisory via e-mail and voice mail message system to all schools

Principals will make frequent announcements reminding staff and students to drink plenty of water

Personal water bottles will be allowed at student desks Staff will be asked to close south-facing window coverings during the day If feasible, computers and lights will be turned off If computers must be turned on, computer use will be limited to the earliest hours of the

school day Schools will limit outdoor physical education activities to the early morning Since the gym tends to be cooler, some outdoor physical education activities will be



- 3 -


EXTREME HEAT ALERT DECLARATION

Same steps as outlined under Heat Alert Declaration, plus All outdoor physical activity will be cancelled. Track and field days will be rescheduled

to rain days. If the school has mechanical ventilation with no operable windows and the mechanical


C. Maltese, Senior Manager Occupational Health & Safety B. Dubniak, Senior Coordinator Employee Relations C. de Paiva, Senior Coordinator School Operations and Maintenance

A. Sangiorgio, Executive Superintendent Planning and Facilities J. Hrajnik, Deputy Director Business Services L. Nemes, Deputy Director Academic Affairs Kevin Kobus Director of Education

APPENDIX A TABLE 1: HEAT ALERT SYSTEM # 1, ENVIRONMENT CANADA’S HUMIDEX READINGS

Humidex Range

Degree of Comfort

20-29 comfortable 30-39 some discomfort 40-45 great discomfort; avoid exertion above 45 dangerous above 54 heat stroke imminent

TABLE 2: HEAT ALERT SYSTEM # 2, CITY OF TORONTO MEDICAL OFFICER OF HEALTH, HEAT ALERT AND EXTREME HEAT DAYS IN TORONTO SINCE 2001 (months of May to September).

YEAR

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

# Heat Alerts

6

14

3

2

8

9

# Heat Alerts during the school year

3

0

1

2

5

5

# Extreme Heat Alerts

3

2

3

0

18

8

# Extreme Heat Alerts during the school year

0

0

3

0

8

1

APPENDIX B

TCDSB HEAT PROTOCOL


HEAT ALERT DECLARATION

TCDSB Communications Department will send an advisory via e-mail and voice mail message system to all schools

Principals will make frequent announcements reminding staff and students to drink plenty of water

Personal water bottles will be allowed at student desks Staff will be asked to close south-facing window coverings during the day If feasible, computers and lights will be turned off If computers must be turned on, computer use will be limited to the earliest hours of the

school day Schools will limit outdoor physical education activities to the early morning Since the gym tends to be cooler, some outdoor physical education activities will be




EXTREME HEAT ALERT DECLARATION

Same steps as outlined under Heat Alert Declaration, plus All outdoor physical activity will be cancelled. Track and field days will be rescheduled

to rain days. If the school has mechanical ventilation with no operable windows and the mechanical


TCDSB Heat Stress SOP - Harmonized Heat Warning Information System

(*The following information was compiled July-August 2016 from the City of Toronto. Please see the City of Toronto website for the most current information regarding the Heat Warning Information System)

How does the Harmonized Heat Warning and Information System work?

Prior to this year, Toronto Public Health participated in a pilot Provincial Harmonized Heat Alert and Response System (HARS). With the success of that project, the program was fully implemented in 2016. The criteria for issuing warnings was selected after an extensive review of epidemiological evidence led by Public Health Ontario and Health Canada about the links between temperature, humidity, and health outcomes including mortality and illness.

Toronto Public Health receives weather forecasts from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) in advance of issuing a Heat Warning. Extended Heat Warnings are issued if conditions are forecasted to continue for 3 or more days. Heat warnings from Environment Canada are based on the following triggers:

Forecast Temperature High

(°C)

Forecast Temperature Low

(°C)

Forecast Humidex

Duration (days)

Action

≥31 ≥20 ≥40 2 Medical Officer of Health will issue a Heat Warning

≥31 ≥20 ≥40 3+ Medical Officer of Health will issue an Extended Heat Warning

What happens during a heat warning?

Once the Medical Officer of Health declares a Heat Warning, notification of key response partners, community agencies and the public is initiated. Hot weather response activities focus on protecting vulnerable groups at increased risk for heat-related illness. Information on the response activities provided by the City and community partners during a Heat Warning is outlined in the City of Toronto Hot Weather Response Plan.

The City also opens seven cooling centres when a Heat Warning is declared.

APPENDIX B

What happens during an extended heat warning?

In addition to the services provided during a Heat Warning, all cooling centres remain open when an Extended Heat Warning is declared. During this time, water and light snacks are available at the seven cooling centres.

As well, during Extended Heat Warnings:

• Parks, Forestry and Recreation may extend operating hours of certain City pools. • During extended heat events, Toronto Public Health Inspectors will visit known rooming

houses, boarding homes and other residential premises of concern to determine if the recommended Hot Weather Protection Plan has been implemented at the building.

Toronto's Hot Weather Response Plan

The City of Toronto Hot Weather Response Plan is a protocol for hot weather response which aims at reducing the incidence of heat-related illness and death in Toronto, due to extreme heat. The main focus of the plan is to provide education and services to vulnerable groups at increased risk for heat-related illnesses.

Website visitors can expect to see an information header similar to the image below when a Heat Warning or Extended Heat Warning has been issued on the following City of Toronto website page:

http://www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=923b5ce6dfb31410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD



City of Toronto's Hot Weather

Response Plan2016

APPENDIX C

HOT WEATHER RESPONSE PLAN (2016)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 General

1.2 Purpose

1.3 Vulnerability

1.3 Background

1.4 Authority

1.5 Members of the Hot Weather Response Plan

SECTION 2 OPERATIONS

2.1 Notification, Activation and Termination of the Hot Weather Response Plan

2.2 Severe and Prolonged Heat Event

2.3 Communications

2.4 Occupational Health and Safety

SECTION 3 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Toronto Public Health

3.2 City Agencies, Boards, Commissions, Corporations and Divisions

3.3 Community Partners

SECTION 4 ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1 Key Terms/Abbreviations

Attachment 2 Hot Weather Response Committee Terms of Reference

Attachment 3 Additional Resources


Page 3 of 13

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 General

The City of Toronto Hot Weather Response (HWR) Plan is a protocol for hot weather response and is

comprised of both proactive and reactive components. Up until 2015, the reactive components were

activated when a Heat Alert or an Extreme Heat Alert was declared by Toronto’s Medical Officer of

Health (MOH). As of 2016, there is change in nomenclature to be more consistent with other health

units in Ontario and with Environment and Climate Change Canada. What was previously known as

Heat alerts will now be knowns as Heat Warnings and what was previously called Extreme Heat Alerts

will now be called Extended Heat Warnings.

Since 2000, the Hot Weather Response Committee, chaired by Toronto Public Health (TPH), has

developed, monitored and sought to improve Toronto’s HWR plan. Committee members consist mainly

of key partners who provide direct services under the HWR plan. Each year, the HWR committee has a

pre-season meeting to confirm the coordination and implementation of the HWR plan and a post-season

de-briefing to review the effectiveness of the response during Heat/Extended Heat Warnings.

The HWR plan is a living document and is reviewed and up-dated on an annual basis. An electronic

version of the plan is provided to HWR committee members, in addition to being posted on the TPH

website. It is the responsibility of each committee member to ensure all those involved in the response

are familiar with the current plan.

In the event of a severe and prolonged heat event, the HWR plan also identifies actions that may be

taken to escalate the response under the provisions of the City’s Emergency Plan.

1.2 Purpose

The purpose of the HWR plan is to provide a framework for the implementation and coordination of hot

weather response activities which focus on reducing the negative health impacts of extreme heat. The

plan’s main objective is to alert those most at risk of heat-related illness that hot weather conditions are

either imminent or currently exist, and to take appropriate precautions.

1.3 Vulnerability

Everyone is vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat, but people on the lower end of the socio-economic

scale tend to be disproportionally affected. These groups of people include socially isolated seniors,

racialized minorities, people who are unemployed or underemployed, recent immigrants and people

whose first language is not English. Other at-risk groups include people with chronic and pre-existing

illnesses including mental illness, people who are not acclimatized to hot weather children, and people

who are marginally housed or homeless.


Page 4 of 13

1.4 Background

Toronto's Hot Weather Response System was initially established in 1999 and at that time used humidex

as a threshold for calling alerts. A forecast humidex of at least 40 Celsius, would have resulted in the

issuance of a Heat Alert. Due to the unpredictability and rapidly changing nature of humidex, from

2000 to 2001, TPH collaborated with the Toronto Atmospheric Fund and the University of Delaware to

develop a Heat Health Alert System expressly for Toronto, based on a complex synoptic system. Heat

Alerts were issued when weather conditions suggested that the likelihood of a high level of mortality

was between 25 and 50 percent greater than what would be expected on a typical day. Extreme Heat

Alerts were forecast when weather conditions suggest that the likelihood of a high level of mortality is at

least 50 percent greater than what would be expected on a typical day.

In May 2015, Toronto Public Health agreed to participate in a Provincial Harmonized Heat Alert and

Response System (HARS). Heat Alerts were called when Environment Canada issued a Level 2

warning. A level 2 warning was indicative of two consecutive days with daytime high temperatures

≥ 31°C, together with overnight low temperatures ≥ 20°C, or Humidex values ≥ 40. Extreme Heat

Alerts were called when Environment Canada's Level 2 warning extended beyond 2 days.

With the pilot being successful, a Provincial Heat Warning and Information System (HWIS) was fully

implemented in 2016 for all Health Units in Ontario. To be consistent with the other health units in

Ontario, as well as Environment and Climate Change Canada, the terminology used to refer to the alerts

was changed to Heat Warnings and Extended Heat Warnings.

TPH and Environment Canada estimate that heat contributes to an average of 120 premature deaths per

year in the City, and that the likelihood of mortality increases on each day of a heat episode. As Toronto

experiences hotter days and longer heat episodes, the impact of heat on health is expected to increase.

1.5 Authority

The current authority for implementing the HWR Plan is provided through the noted City of Toronto

Council directive. It states that “the Hot Weather Response Plan piloted in 2001 be implemented on an

annual basis and the appropriate City officials be authorized and directed to take the necessary steps to

give effect thereto” (Clause No.1 Report No.3 of the Board of Health adopted by Council on April 16,

17 and 18, 2002 in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 27 of the City of Toronto Municipal

Code).

The Mayor under the provisions of the City of Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 59 and provincial

legislation, Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act has the legal authority to declare an

emergency and to take necessary protective measures. Severe and prolonged hot weather may continue and

be declared as a heat emergency. The heat event may initially be forecasted as a Heat Warning or Extended

Heat Warning, however, the intensity and magnitude may be such that other measures in addition to those

identified in the HWR plan would become necessary.

Chapter 59 also establishes the Toronto Emergency Management Program Committee (TEMPC) comprised

of a number of key executives, including the MOH who has the lead role in providing advice and direction

on health-related matters. Other members of TEMPC include the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor, City Manager,

the three Deputy City Managers and other senior officials.


Page 5 of 13

1.6 Members of the Hot Weather Response Plan

The HWR plan is coordinated by TPH and includes both City and community partners. HWR members

that provide direct services under the plan are listed below. Section 3 of the HWR plan (Roles and

Responsibilities) outlines all the pre-agreed activities each member.

SECTION 2 OPERATIONS

2.1 Notification, Activation and Termination of the Hot Weather Response Plan

TPH is responsible for the notification, activation and termination of the HWR plan. Following the MOH

declaration or termination of a Warning, immediate notification to the public and all those participating in

the response is critical. All Notification lists are continuously updated and each participating member is

responsible for notifying TPH of any changes to contact names and telephone numbers and ensuring that

their own internal fan-out lists are current.

There are two distinct groups that TPH notifies when a Warning is declared:

Key Response Notification Group

General Notification Group

Key Response Notification Group

The Key Response Notification Group consists of key partners who have major responsibilities under

the HWR plan and are immediately notified by telephone or email once a warning has been declared and

terminated by the MOH. The members of this group are Toronto Paramedic Services and Toronto

Public Health Strategic Support and if an Extended Heat Warning is issued or terminated the Office of

Emergency is included.

General Notification Group

A broader list consisting of over 1000 community agencies, individuals servicing vulnerable populations,

City staff and the general public receive notifications via e-mail. Individuals on this list are responsible for

ensuring that their email addresses are current.

2.2 Severe and Prolonged Heat Event and / or Hot Weather Emergency

Neither a prolonged heat event nor a heat emergency is automatically triggered by a pre-determined set

of weather related or other criteria. When an extended heat event is severe and/or prolonged, so that its

effects extend outside healthcare services and social services, such as power or water shortages, and/or

strains the capacity of the health and social services sectors, the MOH will request the Toronto Office of

Emergency Management to activate the City of Toronto’s Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

The EOC complements the response and provides an established and recognized point of authority to

coordinate response resources, personnel and incident information. The decision to escalate the

municipal response from an Extended Heat Warning will be taken in consultation with the MOH and

other impacted City Divisions, coordinated by the Toronto Office of Emergency Management. A


Page 6 of 13

prolonged heat event would primarily be a public health issue although this would need to be confirmed

at the time of the event.

If the decision is made to escalate the municipal response (i.e.an emergency is declared), the City of

Toronto Emergency Plan will be implemented and municipal and agency efforts will be directed by the

Toronto Emergency Management Program Committee (TEMPC) Control Group. The TEMPC Control

Group has the authority and responsibility to initiate, co-ordinate, direct and otherwise bring about the

implementation of Toronto’s Emergency Plan, expend funds required to obtain and distribute emergency

materials, equipment and supplies and obtain volunteer support from public agencies. See the City of

Toronto Emergency Plan for further details including emergency notification levels (See City website: http://insideto.toronto.ca/oem/pdf/emergency_levels_table.pdf).

2.3 Communications

Timely and effective communication of information to the public and between participating agencies is

critical during a Heat/Extended Heat Warning. TPH Communications issues media releases to outlets seven

days a week when an Alert is called or terminated. News releases are also e-mailed to City of Toronto

Strategic Communications. In addition, TPH Heat Alert website is updated to reflect current Alert status.

(See TPH Heat Alert website: http://www.toronto.ca/health/heatalerts/index.htm).

Key spokespersons from Toronto Public Health and Toronto Shelter Support and Housing

Administration have been selected to respond to media requests during Heat/Extended Heat Warnings.

2.4 Occupational Health and Safety

The City is committed to providing and maintaining safe and healthy working conditions for all employees.

Staff safety during hot weather and in particular during Heat/Extended Heat Warnings is a priority. City

employees (both management and staff) have access to further information on how to avoid heat-related

illness, which is posted on the City’s internal web site by Human Resources Occupational Health and

Safety. Other participating agencies and members are encouraged to provide additional information to their

staff.

The City's Heat Stress Policy and related Guidelines are available at:

http://we.toronto.ca/intra/hr/policies.nsf/9fff29b7237299b385256729004b844b/5c11533205f65f408525698

8006a018a?OpenDocument

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http://insideto.toronto.ca/oem/pdf/emergency_levels_table.pdf

http://www.toronto.ca/health/heatalerts/index.htm

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Page 7 of 13

SECTION 3 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1 Toronto Public Health

Medical Officer of Health

The MOH or designate declares and terminates Heat or Extended Heat Warnings, conducts media

interviews as appropriate and may request the activation of the City’s Emergency Operations Centre in

the event of a severe and prolonged heat emergency.

Healthy Environments

Healthy Environments is responsible for the overall administration and coordination of the HWR plan.

Healthy Environments responsibilities include the following:

Monitor, evaluate and maintain the Hot Weather Information System (HWIS)

Notify and consult with the MOH on forecasted Heat/Extended Heat Warnings

Maintain notification lists and initiate notification process

Update the heat alert website

Conduct media interviews, as appropriate

Chair the HWR Committee and provide overall leadership and direction regarding hot weather

response

Develop and coordinate distribution of HWR educational resources

Procure and provide TTC tokens to Shelter, Support and Housing Administration for

distribution, as appropriate

Conduct site visits during an extended heat event to confirm the implementation of the Hot

Weather Protection Plan and to evaluate its effectiveness; and, provide Landlord packages as

required.

Investigate reports of critical incidents (possible heat related illness or death) reported to Toronto

Public Health from Toronto Emergency Medical Services or the Office of the Chief Coroner,

Toronto Region

Child Health and Development

Child Health and Development provides public education on hot weather and health through seminars,

presentations and displays during hot weather season. Groups targeted include seniors, home support

agencies, meals on wheels and congregate dining programs and property managers of Toronto

Community Housing.

Child Health and Development also provides public education at parenting groups, Canadian Prenatal

Nutrition Programs and, TPH breastfeeding clinics. Contact is also made with known clients who may

be at high risk of severe health impacts due to hot weather during Heat and Extended Heat Warnings.

Performance and Standards

Emergency Planning and Preparedness (EPP) team within TPH Performance and Standards provides

emergency preparedness and business continuity planning expertise and training. EPP team participates

in networks, partnerships and public education related to emergency management. In addition, EPP can:

Support the application of the Incident Management System model to manage the response to a

severe or prolonged heat event.


Page 8 of 13

Support the use of Emergency Management Communication Tool (EMCT), which is a

communication and coordination tool amongst various healthcare sector partners (e.g. hospitals,

other health units), which may be used during a severe and prolonged heat event and/or hot

weather emergency.

Support the use of Emergency Response Management System (ERMS), which can send out a

mass staff notification to all of TPH Staff.

Liaise with the Toronto Office of Emergency Management on matters related to emergency

management (e.g. training, systems).

Strategic Support

Timely and effective communication to the public and partner agencies is critical when a warning is

declared. TPH Strategic Support issues media releases and provides Strategic Communications with an

electronic copy of the release. They also arrange media interviews for key spokespersons and will make

the necessary logistical arrangements for news conferences, as needed.

Communicable Disease Control

The Communicable Disease Liaison Unit distributes hot weather resource packages to hospitals in

Toronto, discusses content that will be displayed in emergency room and their distribution to patients

seen for heat-related illness.

3.2 City Agencies, Boards, Commissions, Corporations and Divisions

Toronto Shelter, Support & Housing Administration

Shelter, Support and Housing Administration (SS&HA) issues a request that all hostels make

adjustments to permit clients to occupy air-conditioned space in common areas.

SS&HA provide street outreach to the homeless through the Streets to Home Team and ensure ongoing

coordination of street outreach services to people who are homeless, provided by community agencies

through SS&HA’s various funding streams.

Toronto Paramedic Services

Emergency Paramedic Services Community Medicine Program works with TPH to utilize various forms

of media in delivering messages on the potential health risk of hot weather conditions. TPS maintains

the ability to act as key spokespersons for media request, either through the Community Paramedicine

Program or the After Hours On-Call Media Group.

As well, TPS has agreed to report critical incidents (death or transfer of an individual to hospital

believed to be heat-related where the environmental conditions observed by the paramedic indicate

possible excessive heat exposure) to TPH for investigation.

TPS maintains the ability to activate the H-DOC and in the event of a severe prolonged heat event would

have the TPS H-DOC fully operational within a couple of hours to help coordinated City’s Hot Weather

Response.


Page 9 of 13

Toronto Community Housing Corporation

Toronto Community Housing Corporation circulates education materials and communicates with tenants

to ensure they are informed about precautions to take during hot weather, including 24-hour access to air

conditioned common rooms where they exist, during Heat/Extended Heat Warnings.

Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation

Parks, Forestry and Recreation encourage people to go to city pools to cool off or stay in the shade in

parks, and allow people to remain in public parks during Alerts. Parks Ambassadors visit City parks to

provide information with telephone numbers and locations of services where people who are homeless

can go to cool down. A number of swimming pools extend their hours during Extended Heat Warnings.

During alerts, community centre's post notices about the Heat/Extended Heat Warnings and are available

as places for people to cool off during regular business hours selected locations operate as Cooling

Centres.

Toronto Police Service

The Toronto Police Service, when notified of a Heat/Extended Heat Warning, ensures that its members

pay special attention to areas where vulnerable citizens at risk of heat-related illness are found and

encourages them to go to a safe place.

Toronto Public Library Libraries display key health messages about hot weather and heat-related illness throughout the summer.

During warnings, libraries post notices about the Heat/Extended Heat Warning and are available as

places for people to cool off during regular business hours. During visits to schools to talk to children

and teachers about summer library programs, library staff includes summer safety and hot weather

messages in their information sessions.

Toronto Office of Emergency Management

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) maintains the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in a

state of operational readiness. During a severe or prolonged heat event, the Medical Officer of Health

may request that the EOC be activated. The EOC may be activated with or without a Declaration of an

Emergency. However, it will be activated once an emergency declaration has been made. In addition,

OEM manages the City Cooling Centres opened during Extended Heat Warnings.

Toronto Animal Services

Animal services develops and disseminates hot weather safety messages for pet owners and attends to

sick or injured stray dogs or cats if confined or immobile, and critically sick, injured or distressed

wildlife if confined or immobile and attended by someone.

311 Toronto

311 Toronto offers a 24/7 telephone service to provide information about City Services and programs,

including hot weather response.


Page 10 of 13

3.3 Community Partners

Office of the Chief Coroner, Toronto Region

The Office of the Chief Coroner contacts TPH to report deaths where heat may be a contributing factor

(possible heat-related deaths) identified during routine investigations within one business day. The

coroner’s office also confirms prior to the upcoming hot weather season to existing protocols and key

contact information regarding notifications of possible heat-related deaths.

Community Care Access Centres

Community Care Access Centres identify vulnerable clients and develop response plans for them on

Heat/Extended Heat Warning days and share timely information and warning notices with their

respective contracted service provider organizations.

Ontario Community Support Association

Members of the Ontario Community Support Association, an organization of home support agencies

serving frail and isolated seniors, distributes to their clients information and education on heat-related

illness. They also participate in training on recognizing the symptoms and providing first aid for heat-

related illness, and contact vulnerable clients on Heat/Extended Heat Warning days.

Community Health Centres

Receive Heat/Extended Heat notifications. Individual centres may post alert notifications and contact

high risk clients, provide “Beat the Heat” education and display hot weather resource materials.

Change Toronto

The City of Toronto opens Cooling Centres during Extended Heat Warnings. Cooling Centres are

designated air-conditioned locations designed to allow people and their pets to escape the heat, rest,

have a drink, have a light snack and get information on how to “Beat the Heat”. The Cooling Centres

are opened, staffed and operated under the direction of the City of Toronto’s Office of Emergency

Management. .

Environment and Climate Change Canada

Environment and Climate Change Canada provides TPH with weather forecasts, Heat Warnings and

consultation services as needed.


Page 11 of 13

SECTION 4 ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1 - Key Terms/Abbreviations

Key Terms

Heat Warnings are issued by TPH, when there are two consecutive days with daytime high

temperatures ≥ 31°C, together with overnight low temperatures ≥ 20°C, or Humidex values ≥ 40.

Extended Heat Warnings are issued by TPH when there are greater than 3 consecutive days with

daytime high temperatures ≥ 31°C, together with overnight low temperatures ≥ 20°C, or Humidex

values ≥ 40.

Severe and Prolonged Heat Event / Heat Emergency

Although no specific conditions trigger this event, the magnitude or the discussions amongst City staff

may be sufficient to refer to the event as such.

Abbreviations

EOC Toronto Emergency Operations Centre

H-DOC Health Division Operations Centre (EMS)

HWRP Hot Weather Response Plan

HC Healthy Communities

HF Healthy Families

MOH Medical Officer of Health

OEM Toronto Office of Emergency Management

SS&HA Shelter, Support and Housing Administration

TEMPC Toronto Emergency Management Program Committee

TPH Toronto Public Health


Page 12 of 13

Attachment 2 – Hot Weather Response Committee Terms of Reference

Revised October 9, 2008

Background

Since 2000 Toronto Public Health has coordinated the response to heat events through a Hot Weather

Response Plan. The Hot Weather Response Committee which is chaired by Toronto Public Health

includes member organizations that may have specific roles and responsibilities outlined within the plan.

The purpose of the Hot Weather Response Committee is to provide updates on services, identify issues

and make recommendations regarding improvements to the plan.

Mandate

The Hot Weather Response Committee ensures that the Hot Weather Response Plan is reviewed and

updated on an annual basis. The HWR Committee will:

Review, evaluate and make recommendations to changes to the Hot Weather Response Plan.

Facilitate hot weather response communication, coordination and collaboration across divisions and

member agencies.

Identify new or emerging extreme heat event issues.

Accountability

The Hot Weather Response Committee is accountable to the Board of Health, through the Medical

Officer of Health.

Membership

The committee includes representation from:

Toronto Public Health

Toronto Community Care Access Centre

Toronto Emergency Medical Services

Toronto Community Housing Corporation

Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation

Toronto Animal Services (Municipal Licensing & Standards)

Toronto Public Library

Toronto Office of Emergency Management

Toronto Police Service

Toronto Shelter, Support and Housing Administration

Meeting Times

The committee will meet in the spring prior to May 15th the start of the hot weather season and in the fall

following September 30th the end of the hot weather season.


Page 13 of 13

Attachment 3 – Additional Resources

TPH and other agencies have developed a number of useful resources for City and community partners

to use during heat events/extended heat events/heat emergencies. These include

· Interactive online heat vulnerability maps

· Heat-health brochures providing advice about preventing heat-related illness

· Toolkits for communicating about the risk of extreme heat

· Guidelines for health care workers

· A heat registry manual

These and other resources are available at:

http://www.toronto.ca/health/heatalerts/beatheat_community_partners.htm

http://www.toronto.ca/health/heatalerts/beatheat_community_partners.htm

Heat Stress

Issued: April 2008

Revised: June 2014Content last reviewed: June 2014

See also: Heat Stress

This guideline is intended to help employers, workers and other workplace parties understand heat stress, and develop and implement workplace policies to prevent heat-stress-related illness.

What is Heat Stress?Working or playing where it is hot puts stress on your body’s cooling system. When heat is combined with other stresses such as hard physical work, loss of fluids, fatigue or some pre-existing medical conditions, it may lead to heat-related illness, disability and even death.

This can happen to anybody – even the young and fit. In Ontario, heat stress is usually a concern during the summer. This is especially true early in the summer, when people are not used to the heat.

Heat exposure may occur in many workplaces. Significant sources of heat can be found in workplaces such as foundries, smelters, chemical plants, bakeries and commercial kitchens. For outdoor workers, direct sunlight is usually the main source of heat. In mines, especially deep mines, geothermal gradients and equipment contribute to heat exposure. Humidity in workplaces also contributes to heat stress.

Legal Requirements:

Employers have a duty under clause 25(2)(h) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act to take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of a worker. This includes developing policies and procedures to protect workers in environments that are hot because of hot processes and/or weather.

For compliance purposes, the Ministry of Labour recommends the Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) for Heat Stress and Heat Strain published by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). These values are based on preventing workers’ core body temperatures from rising above 38°C.

How do we cope with heat?Your body is always generating heat and passing it into the environment. The harder your body works, the more heat it has to lose. When the environment is hot and/or humid or has a source of radiant heat (such as a furnace or the sun), your body must work harder to get rid of heat.

If the air is moving (for example, by fans) and it is cooler than your body, it is easier for your body to pass heat into the environment.

Workers on medication or with pre-existing medical conditions may be more susceptible to heat stress because some medication and/or medical conditions may impair the body’s response to heat. Such workers should speak to their personal physicians to see if their medication(s) and/or health condition(s) affect their ability to work in hot environments.

Heat-Stress–related disordersA summary of heat-stress-related disorders, causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention is presented in the table below.

Cause Symptoms Treatment PreventionHeat rash Hot humid environment;

plugged sweat glands.Red bumpy rash with severe itching.

Change into dry clothes and avoid hot environments. Rinse skin with cool water.

Wash regularly to keep skin clean and dry.

Heat cramps

Heavy sweating from strenuous physical activity drains a person’s body of fluid and salt, which cannot be replaced just by drinking water. Heat cramps occur from salt imbalance

Painful cramps occur commonly in the most worked muscles (arms, legs or stomach); this can happen suddenly at work or later at home. Heat cramps are serious

Move to a cool area; loosen clothing, gently massage and stretch affected muscles and drink cool salted water (1½ to 2½ mL salt in 1 litre of water) or balanced commercial fluid

Reduce activity levels and⁄or heat exposure. Drink fluids regularly. Workers should check on each other to help spot the symptoms that often precede heat stroke.

Page 1 of 5Heat Stress | Ministry of Labour

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APPENDIX D

resulting from failure to replace salt lost from heavy sweating.

because they can be a warning of other more dangerous heat-induced illnesses.

electrolyte replacement beverage. If the cramps are severe or don’t go away after salt and fluid replacement, seek medical aid. Salt tablets are not recommended.

Fainting Fluid loss, inadequate water intake and standing still, resulting in decreased blood flow to brain. Usually occurs in unacclimatized persons.

Sudden fainting after at least two hours of work; cool moist skin; weak pulse.

GET MEDICAL ATTENTION. Assess need for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Move to a cool area; loosen clothing; have the person lie down; and if the person is conscious, offer sips of cool water. Fainting may also be due to other illnesses.

Reduce activity levels and⁄or heat exposure. Drink fluids regularly. Move around and avoid standing in one place for too long. Workers should check on each other to help spot the symptoms that often precede heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion

Fluid loss and inadequate salt and water intake causes a person's body's cooling system to start to break down.

Heavy sweating; cool moist skin; body temperature over 38°C; weak pulse; normal or low blood pressure; person is tired and weak, and has nausea and vomiting; is very thirsty; or is panting or breathing rapidly; vision may be blurred.

GET MEDICAL ATTENTION. This condition can lead to heat stroke, which can cause death quickly. Move the person to a cool shaded area; loosen or remove excess clothing; provide cool water to drink; fan and spray with cool water. Do not leave affected person alone.

Reduce activity levels and⁄or heat exposure. Drink fluids regularly. Workers should check on each other to help spot the symptoms that often precede heat stroke.

Heat stroke There are two types of heat stroke:

• Classic heat stroke may occur in older adults and in persons with chronic illnesses exposed to excessive heat. When the body has used up its water and salt reserves, it stops sweating causing a rise in body temperature.

• Exertional heat stroke generally occurs in young persons, who engage in strenuous physical activity for a prolonged period of time in a hot environment and the body’s cooling mechanism cannot get rid of the excessive heat.

Heat stroke may develop suddenly or may follow from heat exhaustion.

High body temperature (over 40°C) and any one of the following: the person is weak, confused, upset or acting strangely; has hot, dry, red skin (classic heat stroke) or profusely sweating (exertional heat stroke); a fast pulse; headache or dizziness. In later stages, a person may pass out and have convulsions.

CALL AMBULANCE. This condition can kill a person quickly. Remove excess clothing; fan and spray the person with cool water; offer sips of cool water if the person is conscious.

Reduce activity levels and/or heat exposure. Drink fluids regularly. Workers should check on each other to help spot the symptoms that often precede heat stroke.



Controlling Heat Stress

Acclimatization

The longer you work in a hot environment, the better your body acclimatizes to the heat. If you are ill or away from work for a week or so you can lose your acclimatization.

To become acclimatized, consider the following progressive approaches:

1. If you are experienced on the job, you should limit your shift time in hot working conditions to 50 per cent on the first day, 60 per cent on the second day, and 80 per cent on the third day. You should be able to work a full shift on the fourth day.

2. If you are not experienced on the job (for example, if you are a new employee), you should start off spending 20 per cent of shift time in hot working conditions on the first day and increase your time by 20 per cent on each subsequent day. You should be able to work a full shift in hot working conditions the fifth day.

3. Instead of progressively increasing the exposure times on the job in a hot environment, you can become acclimatized by gradually increasing the physical demands of the job over a week or two.

If you have health problems or are not in good physical condition, you may need longer periods of acclimatization. Hot spells in Ontario seldom last long enough to allow acclimatization. However, exposure to workplace heat sources may permit acclimatization.

When there is a potential for exposure to heat stress, control measures must be taken to prevent heat exposure in the workplace. These include engineering controls, administrative controls and protective clothing. Selection of appropriate workplace controls will vary, depending on the type of workplace and other factors. Some measures may include:

Engineering controls

• Reduce physical demands of work task through mechanical assistance (hoists, lift–tables, etc.)• Control the heat at its source through the use of insulating and reflective barriers (e.g. insulate furnace walls) • Exhaust hot air and steam produced by operations• Reduce the temperature and humidity through air cooling• Provide cool, shaded work areas• Provide air–conditioned rest areas• Increase air movement if temperature is below 35°C (e.g. use fans).

Administrative and work practice controls

• The employer should: ◦ Assess the demands of all jobs and have monitoring and control strategies in place for hot days and hot

workplaces◦ Increase the frequency and length of rest breaks◦ Schedule strenuous jobs to cooler times of the day◦ Provide cool drinking water near workers and remind them to drink a cup about every 20 minutes, or more

frequently, to stay hydrated◦ Caution workers to avoid direct sunlight◦ Assign additional workers or slow down the pace of work◦ Make sure everyone is properly acclimatized◦ Train workers to recognize factors which may increase the risk of developing a heat related illness and the

signs and symptoms of heat stress and start a “buddy system” since people are not likely to notice their own symptoms

◦ Investigate any heat–related incidents• Trained First Aid providers should be available and an emergency response plan should be in place in the event

of a heat related illness.• Pregnant workers and workers with a medical condition – or those taking certain medications – should discuss

with their physicians about working in the heat

Protective clothing

• Light summer clothing should be worn to allow free air movement and sweat evaporation



• If working outdoors, wear light-coloured clothing, preferably long-sleeve shirt and pants, and cover the head to prevent exposure to direct sunlight

• In a high radiant heat situation, wearing reflective clothing to shield radiant heat may help• For very hot environments, consider air, water or ice–cooled insulated clothing• Vapour-barrier clothing, such as chemical protective clothing, greatly increases the amount of heat stress on the

body. Extra caution such as heat strain (physiological) monitoring is necessary, if vapour-barrier clothing is worn

Managing Heat Stress from process heatFor an environment that is hot primarily due to process heat (furnaces, bakeries, smelters, etc.), the employer should follow the guidance of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) as outlined in its booklet and documentation for the recommended Threshold Limit Value (TLVs), and set up a heat stress control plan in consultation with the workplace's joint health and safety committee or worker health and safety representative.

Further information on the ACGIH TLVs, and on the development of heat stress control plans, can be found at the following websites:

ACGIH (documents available for purchase)

U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA - documents available for free)

Managing Heat Stress caused by hot weatherMost workplaces do not have hot processes; however working in hot weather can pose health risks to their workers. For work in hot weather, a hot weather plan is appropriate. A hot weather plan is a simplified heat stress control plan. A hot weather plan should establish the implementation criteria, or triggers, to put the plan into effect. The criteria may include weather⁄environmental indicator triggers such as:

• Humidex (local or specific site) reaching or exceeding 35• Environment Canada humidex advisory (air temperature exceeding 30°C and humidex exceeding 40);• Environment Canada weather reports;• Heat waves (three or more days of temperatures of 32ºC or more); and⁄or• Ontario Ministry of the Environment smog alert.

Generally, plans related to hot weather should be in place between May 1 and September 30 of each year.

The following websites have information on humidex, weather reports and smog alerts:

Environment Canada - weather and meteorology

Environment Canada Weather Office

Air Quality Ontario smog advisories

Other resourcesHealth Canada – Climate Change and Health

Information on extreme heat and human health for the public and health care providers can be found on the Health Canada website.

These links to external websites are offered for convenience only; they do not constitute an endorsement of the websites or their contents. The Ministry of Labour takes no responsibility for the views, contents or accuracy of the information presented by external websites.

Remember that while complying with occupational health and safety laws, you must also obey applicable environmental laws.

For further information or assistance, please call the Ministry of Labour Health & Safety Contact Centre: 1-877-202-0008.

ISBN 978-1-4606-4310-5 HTML)ISBN 978-1-4606-4308-2 (Print)



Disclaimer: This web resource has been prepared to assist the workplace parties in understanding some of their obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the regulations. It is not intended to replace the OHSA or the regulations and reference should always be made to the official version of the legislation.

It is the responsibility of the workplace parties to ensure compliance with the legislation. This web resource does not constitute legal advice. If you require assistance with respect to the interpretation of the legislation and its potential application in specific circumstances, please contact your legal counsel.

While this web resource will also be available to Ministry of Labour inspectors, they will apply and enforce the OHSA and its regulations based on the facts as they may find them in the workplace. This web resource does not affect their enforcement discretion in any way.



HEAT STRESS AWARENESS GUIDE

Included in this guide:

HEAT STRESS AWARENESS TOOL & POSTER

5252

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APPENDIX E

Heat stress can harm or even kill people working under very hot conditions.

To help employers and workers learn how to prevent heat stress, this guide

summarizes the causes, symptoms, and treatment of heat-related illness

presents a fi ve-step approach for using the Humidex to assess heat stress hazards

outlines specifi c actions for managing and controlling heat stress

Key information presented in this guide is summarized in the Heat Stress Awareness Tool (see page 7).


EXCERPT FROM CORONER’S REPORT –

…when the college student started his summer job

as a garbage collector. His second day on the job,

he was overcome by heat stress symptoms. He wasn’t

trained to recognize the warning signs. As a

result, he kept working until he collapsed and fell

into a coma. He died 17 days later. This Inquest

concludes that death could have been prevented

if the employer had a heat stress program that

included training to recognize the symptoms…

The appendices include:

a self-audit checklist

an example of a heat stress policy

an outline of the essential elements of a heat stress program

some useful contact information

Your Health and Safety Association, the Workers Health and Safety Centre, and the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers can provide you with:

technical support

workplace-specifi c information

training on injury and illness prevention

consulting services

concludes that death could have been prevented

ge 7).


Table of contents

Is heat stress a concern in your workplace? . . . . . . 3

The law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Factors infl uencing heat stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Can you get used to heat? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Causes, symptoms, and treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

How is heat stress measured? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Five steps to reduce heat stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Instructions for use of the awareness tool . . . . . . . 7

Heat stress acclimatization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Managing heat stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Control measures: General, job-specifi c, and personal . . . . . . . . . . 9

Appendices

A Sample heat stress policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

B Heat stress reference chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Two Humidex guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

C Self-audit checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

D Essentials for a successful heat stress program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

E Research and support (including website contacts) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

F Environment Canada contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Disclaimer

The material contained in this manual is for information and reference purposes only and not intended as legal or professional advice. The adoption of the practices described in this manual may not meet the needs, requirements, or obligations of individual workplaces.

Use, reproduction, and duplication of this manual is recommended and encouraged.

Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario (OHSCO)

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2

About this guide

The Heat Stress Awareness Guide was developed by the members of the Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario (OHSCO)* to provide information and advice on managing and controlling heat stress in the workplace.

The audience for this Guide includes employers, managers, supervisors, workers, joint health and safety committee (JHSC) members, health and safety representatives, and workplace union representatives. Unions, employer associations, and health and safety professionals may also fi nd the information in this Guide useful.

*For a list of OHSCO members see Appendix E.

3


Is heat stress a concern in your workplace?

Has anyone been affected by heat in your workplace?

Are fans needed to keep workers cool?

Is work done in direct sunlight?

Are there heat-producing processes or equipment in the workplace?

Do workers wear extra clothing/protective equipment that can make them hot (e.g., overalls, respirators, hard hats, etc.)?

Have workers ever expressed concern about heat in the workplace?

Chances are that you answered “yes” to at least one of these questions. Actually, heat stress is something most workplaces must deal with — not just those with workers working in the hot sun or beside hot furnaces or machinery.

The purpose of this heat stress tool kit is to provide workplace parties with strategies for:

recognizing the symptoms

assessing the risk

putting together an effective control program

The law

Employers have a duty under Section 25(2)(h) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act to take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of a worker. This includes developing policies and procedures to protect workers in hot environments due to hot processes or hot weather. For compliance purposes, the Ministry of Labour recommends the current threshold limit value (TLV) for heat stress and heat strain, published by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). These values are based on preventing unacclimatized workers’ core temperatures from rising above 38°C. See Ministry of Labour web document “Heat stress health and safety guideline” for details.

Limitations:

This Heat Stress Awareness Guide is a translation of the ACGIH Heat Stress/Strain Threshold Limit Value (TLV®) from WBGT (wet bulb globe temperature) units into Humidex. This translation assumes unacclimatized workers doing work involving moderate physical activity, and wearing summer shirt, pants, underwear, socks and shoes. This Humidex plan can be adjusted for the radiant heat from the sun (see Step #5 on page 7). If your workplace conditions involve unusual radiant heat, or, workers are required to wear clothing which does not allow sweat to evaporate easily, the ACGIH Heat Stress/Strain TLV® should be consulted rather than this Humidex Plan.

4


HEAT RASH

CA

US

ES Hot humid environment;

plugged sweat glands

SY

MP

TO

MS Red bumpy rash with

severe itching

TR

EA

TM

EN

T Change into dry clothes and avoid hot environments, rinse skin with cool water

SUNBURN

CA

US

ES

Too much exposure to the sun

SY

MP

TO

MS Red, painful, or blistering

and peeling skin

TR

EA

TM

EN

T

If the skin blisters, seek medical aid, use skin lotions (avoid top ical anaesthetics) and work in the shade

HEAT CRAMPSC

AU

SE

S

Heavy sweating drains a person’s body of salt, which cannot be replaced just by drinking water

SY

MP

TO

MS

Painful cramps in arms, legs, or stomach that occur suddenly at work or later at home

Heat cramps are serious because they can be a warning of other more dangerous heat-induced illnesses

TR

EA

TM

EN

T

Move to a cool area; loosen clothing and drink an electrolyte-replacement beverage, if the cramps are severe or don’t go away, seek medical aid

Can you get used to heat?

Yes. The body will get used to working in a hot environment gradually over time. This process of the body becoming more effi cient at cooling itself down is known as “acclimatization”:

The body redirects blood to the skin’s surface

The heart becomes more effi cient

Sweating starts sooner, and there is more of it

Sweat contains less salt

During this adjustment period, symptoms of fatigue, dizziness, heat rash, and stomach discomfort are common. Acclimatization takes time — a rule of thumb for assuming you have acclimatized is when the last fi ve of seven days have workplace temperatures in the heat stress range. It should be noted, however, that dehydration can cancel the benefi ts of acclimatization. Acclimatized workers will generally be able to work longer in a hot environment than unacclimatized workers.

Factors infl uencing heat stress

The heating and cooling balance in the body depends on the following factors:

air temperature

humidity (moisture in the air)

radiant heat load (sun, furnaces, molten material, steam, etc.)

physical activity (how hard you’re working)

cooling (by the evaporation of sweat)

body adjustments (acclimatization)

There are two sources of heat exposure, the outside environment and internal muscle activity. (80% of muscle energy is turned into body heat.) High temperatures and high levels of physical work create heat stress. The body cools itself by evaporating sweat. High humidity hinders sweat from evaporating.

5


FAINTING

CA

US

ES

Fluid loss and inadequate water intake

SY

MP

TO

MS

Sudden fainting after at least two hours of work; cool moist skin; weak pulse

TR

EA

TM

EN

T

GET MEDICAL ATTENTIONAssess need for CPR; move to a cool area; loosen clothing; make person lie down; and when the person is conscious, offer sips of cool water.

Fainting may also be due to other illnesses.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

CA

US

ES

Fluid loss and inadequate salt and water intake causes the body’s cooling system to start to break down

SY

MP

TO

MS

Heavy sweating; cool, moist skin; body temperature above 38°C; weak pulse; normal or low blood pressure; tired and weak, nausea and vomiting; very thirsty; panting or breathing rapidly; blurred vision

TR

EA

TM

EN

T

GET MEDICAL AIDThis condition can lead to heat stroke, which can kill; move the person to a cool shaded area; loosen or remove excess clothing; provide cool water to drink; fan and spray with cool water

Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Heat stress symptoms are a set of natural signals telling you that something needs to be done to balance your body’s heating and cooling. As your body heats up, it tries to rid itself of excess heat through the evaporation of sweat. If it is unable to cool itself this way, your body temperature will increase. When body temperature gets above 38-39°C, the brain starts to overheat, leading to a shutdown of your body’s cooling system (sweating stops). Your temperature now rises even faster, leading to heat stroke and possibly death. The causes, symptoms, and treatment of various heat-related illnesses are listed below.

HEAT STROKE

CA

US

ES

If a person’s body has used up all its water and salt reserves, it will stop sweating, which can cause body temperature to rise; heat stroke may develop suddenly or may follow from heat exhaustion

SY

MP

TO

MS

High body temperature (above 41°C) and any of the following: the person is weak, confused, upset, or acting strangely; has hot, dry, red skin; a fast pulse; headache or dizziness; in later stages, a person may pass out and have convulsions

THIS IS AN IMMEDIATE MEDICAL EMERGENCY. PROMPT ACTION MAY SAVE THE PERSON’S LIFE

TR

EA

TM

EN

T

CALL AN AMBULANCE This condition can kill a person quickly; remove excess clothing; fan and spray the person with cool water; offer sips of cool water, if the person is conscious

6


5 Steps toStep 1 Training Measurements by themselves cannot guarantee worker protection from heat stress. It is essential that workers learn to recognize the early signs and symptoms of heat stress and know how to prevent them! (See Appendix E on page 18 for training resources.)

If it’s possible, workers need to be able to alter their pace of work, take rest breaks, and drink in response to early symptoms (a cup of water every 20 minutes). The ideal heat stress response plan would let workers regulate their own pace by “listening” to their bodies.

Step 2 Clothing The Heat stress action chart on the awareness tool (page 7) assumes workers are wearing regular summer clothes (light shirt and pants, underwear, and, socks and shoes).

If workers wear a double layer of woven clothing (e.g., cotton overalls on top of summer clothes), add 5º of Humidex to the workplace measurement (using the Heat stress reference chart in Appendix B, on page 12).

Estimate the correction factor for other kinds of clothing/protective equipment by comparing them with cotton overalls (e.g., gloves, hard hat, apron, and protective sleeves might be equivalent to a little less than half the evaporation resistance of overalls, so add 1º or 2º of Humidex).

If completely encapsulating suits are worn, heat stress should be managed by monitoring vital signs, as recommended by the ACGIH TLV.

Step 3 Select a measurement location Divide the workplace into zones that have similar heat exposures.

Select a representative location in each zone where you can take measurements.

How is heat stress measured?

The Ministry of Labour uses “wet bulb globe temperature” (WBGT) to measure heat stress. This calculation takes into account air temperature, radiant heat and humidity. Exposure standards are divided into categories based on physical activity and workers’ acclimatization. Adjustments are made for wearing types of clothing and personal protective equipment. Taking WBGT measurements properly requires specialized equipment and expertise. Workplaces with very hot work processes or where workers have experienced heat-related illnesses should measure the WBGT.

Most workplaces don’t have “hot processes” but hot weather can pose health risks to their workers. For these hot work environments, a Hot Weather Plan is appropriate. This is a simplifi ed heat stress prevention program and should establish implementation criteria, or “triggers,” to put the plan into effect. Criteria may include:

Humidex reaching or exceeding 35

Environment Canada Humidex advisory (air temperature exceeding 30ºC and Humidex exceeding 40) or Ontario Ministry of the Environment smog alert

Heat waves (three or more days of temperatures of 32ºC or more)

Generally, Hot weather plans should be in place between May 1 and September 30.

This tool kit provides a simplifi ed version of the WBGT by converting it into Humidex values. It allows workplaces to measure heat stress using only workplace temperature and humidity. (See Appendix B on page 12 for more details.) The following fi ve steps help determine actions to reduce heat stress.

7


Step 4 Measure workplace temperature and humidity

Using a thermal hygrometer(usually $20-$60 at hard-ware or offi ce-supply stores), measure the temperature and relative humidity in your workplace. Avoid placing the thermal hygrometer in direct sunlight or in contact with hot surfaces.

Once you have the temperature and humidity, be sure to adjust for clothing (Step 2), and radiant heat (Step 5). Then use the Heat stress awareness tool (or the table on page 13 in Appendix B) to determine the appropriate heat stress prevention response.

For more detailed calculations (e.g., for acclimatized workers), see Appendix B on page 12 or the calculator located at www.ohcow.on.ca/menuweb/heat_stress_calculator.htm.

Instructions for use of the heat stress awareness tool

1. Measure the workplace temperature and humidity.

2. Turn the wheel to display the workplace temperature. Then, fi nd the humidity value on the left axis. Note the colour of the indicated cell.

3. Refer to the colour on the instruction chart for recommended action.

Example: If the temperature is 32°C (black ring in the window) and the relative humidity is 50%, the colour for this range is yellow. This indicates that the precautions are in the “moderate” value range. In this case, the recommended actions are:

Further reduce physical activity Drink a cup of water every 15-20 minutes

Note: The Heat stress action chart is based on workplace measurements, not weather station/media reports. (Temperatures inside buildings do not necessarily correspond with outside temperatures.)

er

),d

Reduce Heat StressStep 5 Adjust for radiant heat

For outdoor work in direct sunlight between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., add 2º-3º (prorate according to percentage cloud cover) to your Humidex measurement.

For indoor radiant heat exposures, use your training, knowledge and experience to judge whether the exposure involves more or less radiant heat than direct sunlight and adjust the 2º-3º correction factor appropriately.

8


Heat stress acclimatization Ontario summers are not hot enough for workers doing light work (sitting/standing, doing light arm work) to be considered acclimatized for WBGT purposes.

Workers doing moderate work are only considered acclimatized in Ontario if they regularly work around heat sources (e.g., in foundries, around ovens, etc.). See Appendix B.

Workers performing heavy work acclimatize quickly in Ontario, but for the fi rst warm weather of the season, more caution is recommended. Even Humidex 1 (see page 13 in Appendix B) may be too high to protect fully unacclimatized workers doing heavy work.

Note: Clothing and radiant heat must be taken into account when using this guideline. See Steps 1 to 5 outlined on previous page.

Managing heat stress

No system can address all situations. Workplaces with particular sources of heat or humidity may need extra assistance in developing a heat stress response plan. The Health and Safety Associations listed in Appendix E on page 18 are an excellent place to start.

Some workplaces begin with rigorous systems of measurement and prescribed reactions, but once in heat stress season, workers and supervisors eventually learn to anticipate when heat stress controls “kick in.” In such situations, the system becomes less formal.

A coroner’s inquest into a college student’s death noted that prescribed responses to the measurements alone will not protect every worker. Workers must also learn to listen to what their bodies are telling them and know how to respond appropriately. The heat stress response plan must be fl exible enough to protect the most vulnerable workers.

Before establishing a policy, you must determine:

1. One or more monitoring methods or criteria (e.g., self-regulation, Humidex, WBGT measurements).

2. A sampling strategy (e.g., location, frequency, time, trigger to start monitoring).

3. Responses (e.g., rests, rotation, air conditioning, voluntary staying on the job, shut down).

4. Training (when, how often, content, length, Joint Health and Safety Committee involvement, supervisors, workers, fi rst aid).

5. Water-supply coordination (ensuring workers have suffi cient quantities of water available).

6. First-aid reporting, emergency response, medical monitoring, confi dentiality.

In workplaces with JHSCs or Health and Safety representatives, it is important to get them involved and incorporate their ideas into the plan. The Health and Safety Associations and the Workers Health and Safety Centre have resources available to assist in educating Health and Safety representatives and JHSC members regarding the hazards of heat stress and controls. and controls.

9


Once these basics are addressed, you can write your policy and response plan. A sample of a heat stress policy can be found on page 11, in Appendix A, along with a self-audit checklist on page 14 in Appendix C. It is crucial to the success of the plan to get upper management’s endorsement. Once the plan is approved, it needs to be communicated and implemented. All programs need to be evaluated to ensure that they prevent heat stress.

Control measures

General control measures

Develop, communicate and implement the heat stress plan for all workers.

Train workers to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stress and to know how to avoid them.

Provide water nearby on the job site and ensure everyone drinks about one cup of water every 20 to 30 minutes, even if they’re not thirsty.

Establish a fi rst-aid response system with trained fi rst-aid providers and a means to record and report heat stress incidents.

Allow time for workers to acclimatize to the heat and the work. This usually takes about two weeks.

Measure Humidex (or WBGT) levels and allow for self-limitation of exposure. (If this is not possible, adjust the work/rest cycles accordingly.)

Encourage workers to use a buddy system — each buddy looks out for early signs and symptoms of heat stress in the other.

Job-specifi c control measures

Provide barriers to shield workers from radiant heat exposure. Provide cooling fans when air temperature is below skin temperature (35°C) and the humidity is below 70%. Consider cooling or dehumidifying the workplace.

Note: When the temperature exceeds 35°C and the relative humidity is above 70%, the use of fans will increase worker’s temperature because there will be little evaporation of sweat

Provide mechanical aids for material handling — dollies, carts, lifting devices — to reduce physical activity. Organize the work to reduce the pace of activity.

If possible, postpone strenuous work until a cooler time of the day.

If work is done outside, ensure that shaded areas are available.

Rotate workers in and out of hot work areas whenever possible.

Consider cooling vests, if feasible and effective for the individual.

Personal control measures

Avoid eating large meals before working in hot environments.

Avoid alcohol or beverages with caffeine. These make the body lose water and increase the risk of heat stress.

Wear light clothing that permits the evaporation of sweat (e.g., cotton clothing). Use sunscreen and cover your head if working outside.

Advise workers to check with their doctor if their medication may affect their heat tolerance.

Make healthy lifestyle choices (i.e., body weight, fi tness, diet, rest, etc.)

In 2004, the WSIB supported a RAC grant to study heat stress in the fi refi ghting profession. Findings of the report titled, “The Management of Heat stress for the Firefi ghter”, led to the development of a slide rule (later a wheel) that can be used by incident commanders to determine safe work limits for their fi refi ghters during activities that involve wearing their full protective clothing and self contained breathing apparatus. Results of the research performed in the laboratory on fi refi ghters in full gear exercising on treadmills have shown that submerging the forearm in cool water for 20 minutes was an effective method for lowering the body temperature along with drinking suffi cient fl uids and resting.

10


11


Appendix A

Heat stress policy (sample)

(Company name)

(Company name) recognizes the potential problems caused by high temperatures in the work environment. To reduce the potential for heat-related illness, (Company name) has developed the following heat stress policy.

This policy requires the full cooperation of all members of the (Company name) team: Senior management, the Joint Health and Safety Committee, supervisors, and workers. In order to monitor and evaluate the potential for heat-related problems in the workplace, a reference guide called the Heat Stress Awareness Guide will be used. By linking temperature and humidity, a colour code on the heat stress awareness tool (as described in the Guide) provides the appropriate work-site response.

Employees are asked to cooperate fully with this policy. All employees of (Company name) will be trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stress — in themselves, as well as in other employees.

Employees experiencing symptoms of heat stress must report to fi rst-aid personnel immediately to obtain proper medical attention. During days when heat stress procedures are in place, all employees will follow the contingency plans. Extra water will be available and workers will be encouraged to drink it.

In order to monitor the effectiveness of this policy, (Company name) will perform an annual review. The heat stress policy will be evaluated, improvements will be made, and acknowledgement will be given to those who make signifi cant contributions to its success.

(Company manager) Date

12


Appendix B

The following heat stress reference chart shows Humidex readings for the 2007 ACGIH moderate action level (unacclimatized) workload category WBGT values from the heat stress/strain TLV. Since the Ministry of Labour heat stress guidelines state that “hot spells in Ontario seldom last long enough for workers to acclimatize,” workers performing “moderate” work (e.g., work with some pushing, lifting) cannot be assumed to be acclimatized unless they are regularly exposed to signifi cant radiant heat. Workers performing “heavy” work (e.g., shovelling dry sand), however, could probably be considered acclimatized once they are into the warm-weather season.

Limitations: This table is based on the assumption that the work is being performed under conditions with little or no radiant heat, and workers wearing regular summer clothing; if your conditions vary from these, use the steps listed on pages 6 and 7 to make adjustments.

An online version of the chart is available for download at www.ohcow.on.ca/menuweb/hhrplan.pdf

An online calculator can be accessed at www.ohcow.on.ca/menuweb/heat_stress_calculator.htm

Heat stress reference chart

RELATIVE HUMIDITY (%)

100% 95% 90% 85% 80% 75% 70% 65% 60% 55% 50% 45% 40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10%

TE

MP

ER

AT

UR

E (

OC

)

49 50 49

48 49 48

47 50 47 47

46 49 46 46

45 50 47 45 45

44 49 46 44 44

43 49 47 45 42 43

42 50 48 46 43 41 42

41 48 46 44 42 40 41

40 49 47 45 43 41 39 40

39 49 47 45 43 41 39 37 39

38 49 47 45 44 42 40 38 36 38

37 49 47 45 44 42 40 38 37 35 37

36 50 49 47 45 44 42 40 39 37 35 34 36

35 50 48 47 45 44 42 40 39 37 36 34 33 35

34 49 48 46 45 43 42 40 39 37 36 34 33 31 34

33 50 48 47 46 44 43 41 40 39 37 36 34 33 32 30 33

32 50 49 48 46 45 44 42 41 40 38 37 36 34 33 32 30 29 32

31 50 49 48 47 45 44 43 42 40 39 38 37 35 34 33 32 30 29 28 31

30 48 47 46 44 43 42 41 40 39 37 36 35 34 33 32 30 29 28 27 30

29 46 45 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 29

28 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 28

27 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 27

26 39 38 37 36 35 34 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 26

25 37 36 35 34 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 25

24 35 34 33 33 32 31 30 29 28 28 27 26 25 24

23 33 32 32 31 30 29 28 28 27 26 25 23

22 31 30 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 25 22

21 29 29 28 27 27 26 25 21

100% 95% 90% 85% 80% 75% 70% 65% 60% 55% 50% 45% 40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10%

RRELATIVE HHUMIDITY (%%)

100% 95% 90% 85% 80% 75%% 70% 6655% 60% 555% 50% 455% 40% 335% 30% 25%% 20% 15% 10%

TE

ME

RP

EA

TU

RE

R

(OC

)

49

48

47

46

45

44

43

42

41

40

39

38

37

36

35

3434

33

32

3131

30

29

2828

27

26

25

24

23

22

21

50

49

50 47

49 46

50 47 45

49 46 44

49 47 45 42

50 4848 46 43 41

48 4646 44 42 40

49 47 45 43 41 39

494 47 45 43 4141 39 37

49 477 45 44 42 400 38 36

49 4747 4545 44 42 40 38 373 35

505 49 47 45 44 4242 40 39 37 3553 34

50 4884 47 45 44 42 404 39 37 36 344 33

49 48 466 45 43 42 400 399 37 36 34 33 331

50 48 47 464 44 434 41 40 39 37 3636 34 33 32 330

50 49 48 46 45 444 42 414 40 38 37 363 343 33 32 30 29

50 4949 48 47 4544 44 43 42 40 39 38 37 35 344 33 323 30 29 28

48 47 46 44 43 42 41 40 393 37 3636 35 34 33 32 300 29 28 27

46 45 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 3535 33 32 31 3030 2929 28 27 26

43 42 411 40 39 383838 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 272 26 25

41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 3232 31 300 29 28 27 26 25

39 38 37 363 35 34 34 33 32 31 30 299 28 27 26 2525

37 36 35 344 34 33 3222 31 30 29 28 27 272 26 25

35 34 33 33 32 31 30 29 28 28 277 26 2552

33 32 32 31 3030 29 28 2822 27 26 25

31 30 30 29 28 27 27 2666 25 25

29 29 28 27 27 26 25

100% 95% 90% 85% 80% 75%% 70% 6655% 60% 555% 50% 455% 40% 335% 30% 25%% 20% 15% 10%

49

48

47

46

45

44

43

42

41

40

39

38

37

36

35

3434

33

32

3131

30

29

2828

27

26

25

24

23

22

21

13


Humidex 1 or Humidex 2

There are two Humidex guidelines to determine the appropriate actions required:

Humidex 1 refers to unacclimatized workers doing “moderate” work, and ranges indicate the need for general heat stress controls.

Humidex 2 refers to acclimatized workers doing “moderate” work, and ranges indicate the need for specifi c controls.

The ACGIH specifi es an action limit and a TLV to prevent workers’ body temperatures from exceeding 38°C (38.5°C for acclimatized workers). Below the action limit (which corresponds to Humidex 1 for work of moderate physical activity), most workers will not experience heat stress. Most healthy, well-hydrated, acclimatized workers not on medication will be able to tolerate heat stress up to the TLV (Humidex 2 for moderate physical activity).

NEVER IGNORE ANYONE’S SYMPTOMS, REGARDLESS OF YOUR MEASUREMENTS!

Note: Clothing and radiant heat must also be taken into account when using this guideline (See Steps 1 to 5 outlined on pages 6 and 7).

Humidex 1general controls ACTION RECOMMENDED

Humidex 2specifi c controls

30 – 37 Warn for symptoms and extra water 36 – 42

38 – 39 Work with 15 minutes/hour relief 43 – 44

40 – 41 Work with 30 minutes/hour relief 45 – 46*

42 – 44 Work with 45 minutes/hour relief 47 – 49*

45+ Hazardous to continue physical activity 50+*

* For Humidex ranges above 45, heat stress should be managed as per the ACGIH TLV

Humidex 1 general controls include providing annual heat stress training, encouraging adequate fl uid replacement, permitting self-limitation of exposure, encouraging employees to watch out for symptoms in co-workers, and adjusting expectations for workers coming back to work after an absence.

Humidex 2 specifi c controls include (in addition to general controls) engineering controls to reduce physical job demands, shielding of radiant heat, increased air movement, reduction of heat and moisture emissions at the source, adjusting exposure times to allow suffi cient recovery, and personal body-cooling equipment.

Example: Suppose the temperature in the workplace is measured at 33°C and the relative humidity is 50%. The Humidex would be 41 (see heat stress reference chart, page 12).

Therefore, recommended action is as follows:

Humidex 1: 30 minutes/hour relief, and;

Humidex 2: Full work, with warning to be wary of heat stress symptoms and to drink extra water.

14


LEADERSHIP Written heat stress policy and plan

Responsibilities and accountabilities identifi ed for:

Employer

Supervisor

JHSC/H&S representative

Worker

EMPLOYEE TRAININGFor all relevant personnel

What is heat stress?

Symptoms and health effects

Personal risk factors

Jobs at risk

Monitoring results

Actions to be taken for controlling heat stress

Heat stress policy and plan

Controls as established — engineering, administration, work practices

Personal protective equipment

First aid

Reporting procedures

Medical surveillance

A self-audit can determine what mechanisms and practices your workplace has in place to combat heat stress. It also indicates which programs or practices may be defi cient and require attention.

Appendix C

The self-audit checklist

15


STANDARDS & PROCEDURES

Identifi cation of potential heat hazards and jobs at risk

Visual observations

Accident/incident reports

Absentee rate, employee complaints, medical records

Assessment and evaluation of risk

MONITORING Weather as a trigger

Type of testing

Frequency

Workload categories for job

Clothing insulation values

Comparison of monitoring results to acceptable standards

CONTROLS Controls (e.g., shielding heat sources, ventilation, fans, air conditioning, reducing metabolic workload, acclimatization, work scheduling, rotation, work/rest regimen, water, personal protective equipment)

Evaluation of overall program effectiveness

Compliance with standards and procedures

16


Appendix D

Essentials for a successful heat stress prevention program

The following elements are important in making your heat stress prevention program successful:

CommunicationThe organization should communicate the requirements of all heat stress standards, policies, and procedures to all employees.

Training and personnel developmentEmployees may need training on such topics as:

Defi nition of heat stress

Signs and symptoms of heat-related disorders

Importance of reporting signs and symptoms to supervisors

When, how, and why to take breaks from hot work

Recognition, assessment, and evaluation of heat stress

Controls for heat stress

MeasurementThe organization should keep track of data that can provide an evaluation of the heat stress prevention program. For example, you should keep track of lost-time injuries due to heat and hot weather conditions, worker complaints of discomfort after prolonged work, and purchases of equipment meeting standards that have been set. You may want to repeat a needs assessment or a heat survey done earlier to get comparative data after controls have been put in place to check if the controls are adequate.

Leadership commitmentManagement must recognize that a heat stress prevention program is required to prevent heat stress, and must show commitment to a heat stress prevention program through appropriate assignment of resources. Employees must be involved at every step of the program’s development and implementation.

Identifying hazards, assessing risk, and determining needsThe organization must perform and document an assessment to identify all risk factors in the workplace that could lead to heat stress. Consideration should be given to legislative requirements, industry best practices, internal lost-time data, etc. Tools to perform this assessment could include walk-through inspections, surveys, checklists, and task analysis. These assessments should be repeated periodically, or as often as processes in the organization change.

Implementation of the plan and strategyOnce the risks and needs have been identifi ed, the organization should develop a plan to address them. The plan should defi ne responsibilities, accountabilities, timelines, and milestones for implementing the plan.

StandardsThe organization should establish and document its standards for heat stress prevention, considering guidelines from professional bodies, industry best practices, etc.

Procedures, guidelines, and practicesProcedures, guidelines, and practices to implement all identifi ed heat stress policies and standards must be documented. They should defi ne, step by step, the process to accomplish a task or activity, including work/rest regimes (how often, when, in what areas, etc.), as defi ned in the standards.

17


EvaluationThe organization should analyze the measurement data to determine the degree of compliance and effectiveness of the heat stress prevention program by looking at indicators such as:

Reduction in heat-related symptoms and illness through implementation of controls

Reduction in absenteeism or lost time related to heat

Increase in workers’ knowledge about heat stress recognition and prevention

Decrease in complaints of discomfort

Adherence to work/rest regimens on hot days

Recognition, improvement, correctionDevelop an improvement plan based on the measurement and evaluation fi ndings, and include opportunities for improvement and correction. If you ensure that all components of this continuous-improvement loop are in place, you will increase the effectiveness of your heat stress prevention program.

18


Appendix E

Research and support

Technical support is available from your Health and Safety Association. Workplace-specifi c information, as well as training and consulting services for illness and injury prevention, are provided by the Health and Safety Associations of Ontario, the Workers Health and Safety Centre, and the Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers.

Ontario Ministry of Labourwww.labour.gov.on.ca

Institute for Work and Healthwww.iwh.on.ca

Workplace Safety and Insurance Boardwww.wsib.on.ca

Construction Safety Association of Ontariowww.csao.org

Education Safety Association of Ontario www.esao.on.ca

Electrical & Utilities Safety Association www.eusa.on.ca

Farm Safety Association www.farmsafety.ca

Industrial Accident Prevention Association www.iapa.ca

Mines and Aggregates Safety and Health Association www.masha.on.ca

Municipal Health and Safety Association www.mhsao.com

Ontario Forestry Safe Workplace Association www.ofswa.on.ca

Ontario Safety Association for Community and Healthcare www.osach.ca

Ontario Service Safety Alliance www.ossa.com

Pulp & Paper Health and Safety Association www.pphsa.on.ca

Transportation Health & Safety Association of Ontario www.thsao.on.ca

Workers Health & Safety Centrewww.whsc.on.ca

Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers www.ohcow.on.ca

Other sources of information on heat stress include:

Health Canadawww.hc-sc.gc.ca

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (USA)www.osha.gov/SLTC/heatstress/recognition.html

For information on humidity, weather reports, and smog alerts:

Environment Canadawww.msc.ec.gc.ca

Environment Canada fact sheet: summer severe weatherwww.on.ec.gc.ca/severe-weather/summer.html

OHCOW Humidex-based heat stress calculatorwww.ohcow.on.ca/menuweb/heat_stress_calculator.htm

Environment Canada Humidex calculatorlavoieverte.qc.ec.gc.ca/meteo/Documentation/Humidex_e.html

Environment Canada weather offi cewww.weatheroffi ce.ec.gc.ca/canada_e.html

Air Quality Ontario smog advisorieswww.airqualityontario.com

19


Appendix F

Environment Canada contacts

Environment Canada provides regional weather details and forecasts via the services listed below:

www.weatheroffi ce.ec.gc.ca

Environment Canada (toll-free at 1-800-668-6767) for options to obtain the latest weather conditions and forecast for your location.


5252A (05/09) © 2009, WSIB Ontario. Printed in Canada


Included in this guide:

HEAT STRESS AWARENESS TOOL & POSTER

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TCDSB Heat Stress SOP - Heat Stress Awareness for TCDSB Workers

The following awareness information applies to all TCDSB workers who may be exposed to heat stress, particularly:

• Custodial Staff • Teaching staff, especially when:

• Maintenance Staff - Coaching and / or leading phys. ed.activities

• Supervisory Staff / Project Coordinators(when working in the field)

- Participating in field trips

- On Yard duty

• Print Shop Staff - Performing Summer school activities(esp. outdoors)

What is Heat Stress?

"Heat stress" is a buildup of body heat generated from a combination of the effort you exert while working, the environment (air temperature, humidity, air movement, radiation from the sun, or hot surfaces/sources), and the clothing and equipment you wear.

Types of heat stress: causes, symptoms and treatment

Type Cause Symptoms Treatment

Sunburn Sun exposure to bare, unprotected skin

Red, painful skin

Blistering / peeling

Limit sun exposure on bare skin

Apply sun screen

Heat Rash Hot, humid environment

Plugged sweat glands

Red, bumpy rash with severe itching

Change into dry clothes

Avoid hot environments

Rinse skin with cool water

Heat Cramps Heavy sweating, depleting the body of salt

Cramps in arms / legs / stomach

Move to a cool area

Drink electrolyte-

APPENDIX F

replacing fluids

Seek medical attention if cramps do not subside

Fainting Fluid loss and inadequate water intake

Sudden fainting after at least two hours of work

Cool, moist skin

Weak pulse

GET MEDICAL ATTENTION

Move to a cool place

Lie down

Sip water

Heat Exhaustion

Fluid loss and inadequate water intake

Heavy sweating

Cool, moist skin

Body temp. above 38C

Normal or low blood pressure

Tired, weak, nausea, vomiting, very thirsty, panting or rapid breathing, blurred vision

GET MEDICAL ATTENTION

Move to a cool, shaded area

Loosen / remove excess clothing

Sip cool water

Fan / spray with cool water

Heat Stroke Heat Exhaustion

Lack of fluids, causing the cessation of sweating, resulting in an increase in body temp.

High body temp. (above 41C) and:

Weakness/confusion/ acting strangely; hot/dry/red skin; fast pulse; headache/dizziness

Loss of consciousness, convulsing

CALL 911

Remove excess clothing

Fan / spray with cool water

Sip cool water

How can I prevent heat stress?

- Drink lots of cool water even before you feel thirsty, (recommended every 20-30 minutes)

- Keep blinds or drapes closed to block out the sun during the day

- Unplug electronics and turn off lights when not in use

- Use fans effectively; place fans in or next to a window to bring in the cooler air from outside

- “Listen” to your body and alter your pace of work

- Reschedule or plan strenuous outdoor activities (including roof work, where authorized) during the cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon)

- Take longer and more frequent breaks (in a shaded area)

- Wear loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing; consider wearing a hat

- Consult with your doctor or pharmacist on medications that increase your risk to heat

- Make healthy lifestyle choices (i.e. body weight, fitness, diet, rest, etc.)

- Acclimatize your body to working in the heat (follow the “Controlling Heat Stress” section of the Ministry of Labour’s Heat Stress Guide - https://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/gl_heat.php)

- Where possible, use the buddy system and look for signs of heat stress in each other

What is a Heat Warning?

Toronto Public Health receives weather forecasts from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) in advance of issuing a Heat Warning. Extended Heat Warnings are issued at the discretion of the Medical Officer of Health if conditions are forecasted to continue for 3 or more days. Heat warnings from Environment Canada are based on the following triggers:

Forecast Temperature High

(°C)

Forecast Temperature Low

(°C)

Forecast Humidex

Duration (days)

Action

≥31 ≥20 ≥40 2 Medical Officer of Health will issue a Heat Warning

≥31 ≥20 ≥40 3+ Medical Officer of Health will issue an Extended Heat Warning

When you hear that a heat warning has been issued, use the enclosed prevention tips and listen for additional guidance from Toronto Public Health and your Supervisors.

*Note: The term “heat warning” has replaced the term “heat alert” and the term “extended heat warning” has replaced the term “extreme heat alert”

Documents

Occupational Health and Safety Standard Operating … Occupational Health and Safety…………… ... The TCDSB Hot Weather Procedure identifies a series of hazard controls that