Heat Illness - Indoor or Outdoors | Environment, Health & Safety

Recognizing and responding to heat illness in the workplace is crucial for protecting team member health and ensuring a safe working environment. Heat-related illnesses escalate rapidly and become life-threatening if not addressed promptly. By staying vigilant for symptoms and taking early action, we can help foster a culture of safety and care.

UCLA Heat Illness Prevention Program

What to do to Stay Safe

Beat the Heat: Stay Safe Outdoors

Trigger Temperatures

Applies at ≥ 80°F. High-heat procedures required if ≥ 95°F.
Quick Actions: Implement your department's Heat Illness Plan, 1 liter/hour water per employee. Shade required ≥ 80°F (or on request). Breaks every hour when working in direct sun.
Monitor & Respond: Watch for symptoms, especially ≥ 95°F. Monitor employees during cool-down rests. Emergency plans must be clear and accessible at the job site.
Outdoor Illness Factsheet PDFs available upon request.

Stay Safe Indoors

Trigger Temperatures

Applies at ≥ 82°F
Quick Actions:
- If feasible provide alternative work location or remote work option.
- Implement your department's Heat Illness Plan.
- Provide cool water nearby.
- Identify at least one designated cool-down area in the vicinity (maintained ≤ 82°F).
- Allow rest breaks as needed.
- Use fans if air temperatures are less than 95°F (will not work above that temperature).
Monitor & Respond: Track temps & heat index. Watch for symptoms of heat illness during cool-downs. Report concerns immediately to your supervisors.
Indoor Heat Illness Factsheet PDFs available upon request.

Rising temps can be dangerous—report heat risks at work!

If you notice an issue, do one of the following:

Tell your supervisor.
Call EH&S: 310-825-5689

Indoor temps over 82°F?

If you do not have a temperature monitoring device available you can request to have your worksite checked by EH&S.

 Submit an IEQ Service Request

If you need assistance with your department's Heat Illness Plan or have additional questions email: safetyandcompliance@ehs.ucla.edu

Even mild heat exposure can lead to discomfort—know the signs and what to do!

Symptom	Signs	Treatment
Heat Rash	Itching/irritation of the skin from clogged sweat glands.	Keep the affected area dry. Apply powder if necessary to absorb moisture.
Heat Cramps	Painful spasms in arms, legs or abdomen. Hot, moist skin.	Drink fluids. Massage cramped areas. Rest in shade.
Heat Exhaustion	Heavy sweating Intense thirst Pale and cool skin Rapid pulse Fatigue/weakness Nausea Headache Blurred vision	Move to cool, shaded area. Rest with legs elevated. Loosen clothing. Drink plenty of fluids.
Heat stroke	Very high body temperature Lack of sweating Hot, red, dry skin Fatigue/weakness Headache Dizziness Rapid pulse	Call 911 immediately. Move to shade. Provide water. Apply cool, wet towels. Use ventilation or fan.