Too hot to function? Why recognising the signs of heat-stroke at work could literally save your life.

Posted on 21 February, 2025

We’ve all been there, pushing through another busy day at work. Your head is pounding, and despite the heat, you’ve stopped sweating. These aren’t just signs of a tough day – it’s your body screaming for attention!

Heat stroke is a serious business, and as women, we often push ourselves to keep going when we should be taking care of ourselves first. But whether you’re working in a hot restaurant kitchen, an office without proper air conditioning, or even outdoors, recognising the signs of heat-related illness could literally save your life. 

But what can you expect and – more importantly – how do you avoid it? 

Stay ahead of heat stroke 

Let’s be real – we’re all about self-care, and preventing heat stroke is no different. Stay one step ahead with these workplace wellness tips:

• Keep a reusable water bottle at your desk or workstation
• Dress in light, breathable fabrics (yes, you can be both professional and comfortable)
• Listen to your body – those early warning signs are telling you something
• Have open conversations with your colleagues about workplace temperature
• Know your workplace’s heat management plan

How to tell if things are serious and what to do next

If you or a colleague shows signs of heat stroke – confusion, severe headache, lack of sweating despite the heat, or nausea – it’s time to take action. Don’t overthink it. Maybe you’re stewing on that looming deadline, or feeling guilty about leaving your colleagues short-staffed. Perhaps you’re concerned about using up your sick leave or what your boss might think. But here’s the reality: heat stroke is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention. 

Here’s what you should do if you or someone you know seems to be struggling from heat stroke: 

1. Move to a cool space immediately
2. Loosen any tight clothing
3. Sip cool water
4. Call an ambulance – this isn’t the time for second-guessing

In a nutshell, your employer has a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment, and that includes protection from heat stress. You are allowed to take regular breaks in air-conditioned, shady areas, or stop work if you feel unwell due to heat. Remember, standing up for your health and safety isn’t just about you – it’s about creating better workplaces for everyone.

If you’re worried about heat stroke at work (or if you’ve already experienced it) it’s really important to seek legal advice. This is particularly true if you’ve missed shifts or lost out on income as a result of heat stress at work.

Consulting an expert, like the team at MEJ, can help you understand your rights and make sure your employer is held accountable for providing a safe working environment. 

At the end of the day, no job is worth risking your health for.