Exposure to heat in the workplace can be a matter of life and death.
A study released by Toronto Public Health and Environment Canada predicts heat-related deaths will double by 2050 and triple by 2080 because of global warming. With summer weather fast approaching, it is vital to consider the impact that heat has on members in every workplace.
The Unifor Health, Safety and Environment Department has information available that can help you identify heat hazards in your workplaces and put programs and systems in place to prevent heat-related injuries.
Read the Heat Stress Fact Sheet now
We invite you review the fact sheet, available in a short version and a more detailed version. Share with members, post in your workplaces, and ensure that a protective and comprehensive heat stress program is part of every Unifor-represented workplace.
Health, Safety and Environment Department staff are always here to help and act as a resource.
Exercise your rights, and be safe
Finally, we remind you that as a worker you have four basic rights: the right to know, the right to refuse unsafe work, the right to participate, and the right to no reprisals when you exercise your rights.
Do not be afraid to exercise your rights as a worker, as there is no job that is so important that it cannot be done safely.
Find more resources at unifor.org/healthandsafety.