Mining Feature: Knowing the Facts about Heat Stress in Mining

Thursday, June 29, 2017

Man in reflective worker vest wiping sweat off his brow.

Heat stress is a real danger in mining.

With the summer here, people are outdoors for plenty of reasons, including work. However, working during warm months in many industries, including construction, road maintenance, and mining—both surface and underground—can pose risks to your health. It is important to remember that exposure to hot weather can lead to heat-related illnesses, such as rashes, cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke, which is often fatal.

To better understand the dangers of extreme heat exposure, review our series of fact sheets  about risk factors, hydration, alternating periods of work and rest, what to do to prevent heat stress, and first aid that can help if you or a coworker is struck by heat illness.


Page last reviewed: August 12, 2020
Page last updated: June 29, 2017