July 15, 2011- Every year, thousands of workers become sick from exposure to heat on the job. 

Some of these workers even die. These illnesses and deaths are preventable.

Who is affected? Workers exposed to hot and humid conditions are at risk of heat illness, especially those doing heavy work tasks or using bulky protective clothing and equipment. Some workers might be at greater risk than others if they have not built up a tolerance to hot conditions.

What is heat illness? The body normally cools itself by sweating. During hot weather, especially with high humidity, sweating isn't enough. Body temperature can rise to dangerous levels if precautions are not taken. Heat illnesses range from heat rash and heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke can result in death and requires immediate medical attention.

How can heat illness be prevented? Remember three simple words: water, rest, shade. Drinking water often, taking breaks, and limiting time in the heat can help prevent heat illness. It’s important to know and look out for the symptoms of heat illness in yourself and others during hot weather. Plan for an emergency and know what to do.

OSHA's Campaign to Prevent Heat Illness in Outdoor Workers

The Department of Labor has created a new OSHA webpage as part of their nationwide outreach campaign to raise awareness among workers and employers about the hazards of working outdoors in hot weather. The educational resources on this website give workers and employers’ information about heat illnesses and how to prevent them. [More]

Take Act Now: No Rotten Deal for Working Families

In Washington, there’s been a lot of talk about cutting Medicare and Medicaid.

Now comes a plan to slash Social Security by $112 billion over the next decade and raise taxes on poor and middle-class Americans while almost completely letting the rich off the hook.

Will you let your senators know that working families will do our part to help clean up our economic mess, but we won’t accept cuts to Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid, no matter what politicians call them?

Tell your senators: No cuts to Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. Make millionaires and billionaires pay their fair share. It’s easy to send a message. Take Action here.