Toolbox talk · Health hazards
Heat illness prevention
It's getting hot out there, and heat can take down anyone on this crew, even guys who've worked in it for years. Heat illness can move fast, from cramps to heat stroke, and heat stroke can kill. This week we look out for ourselves and each other.
Published 2026-10-23
Key points
- 1Drink water every 15 to 20 minutes, even if you're not thirsty. Don't wait until break to drink.
- 2Take your breaks in the shade or a cool spot. If you feel worn out, take an extra break and tell me.
- 3New workers and anyone coming back from time off need to build up slowly. Lighter work and more breaks for the first days.
- 4Know the warning signs: heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, cramps, nausea, or feeling weak. Stop, cool down, drink water, and tell someone.
- 5Confusion, slurred speech, passing out, or hot skin are signs of heat stroke. Call 911, get the person to shade, and cool them with water and ice right away. Never leave them alone.
- 6Wear light, loose clothing and a hat or brim under your hard hat when you can. Skip energy drinks and alcohol; they dry you out.
- 7Use the buddy system. Check on the person next to you, and speak up if they don't look right.
Talk it over
- Where is the closest shade and water on this site, and is there enough for everyone?
- Which tasks today put us in the most heat, and can we move any of them to early morning?
- If someone here showed signs of heat stroke, who would call 911 and what address would you give?
Remember
Water, rest, shade, and watch your buddy.
Also in the other language: Prevención de enfermedades por calor
Official sources
Print it with a sign-in sheet
Pro prints every talk on your letterhead with an attendance sheet, records who attended, and emails your foremen this week's talk every Monday.
General information, not legal advice. Templates and examples should be reviewed by a competent person before use. HardHat Binder is not affiliated with or endorsed by OSHA.