If you have concerns about the heat
Employees with concerns regarding office or classroom temperatures are encouraged to contact Facilities at facilitiesservicedesk@ufv.ca.
What is heat stress?
Heat stress can result in a range of problems, from skin rashes and light-headedness to convulsions and unconsciousness. The complete WSBC booklet for preventing heat stress at work can be downloaded here.
Some individuals may be more susceptible to the effects of heat, especially in combination with poor air quality. If employees are feeling ill and are unable to work due to medical concerns, they are encouraged to inform their manager and seek medical attention.
Tips for staying safe during a heatwave:
- Drink plenty of water even before you feel thirsty.
- Stay in a cool or air-conditioned place as much as you can.
- Check on older family, friends and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and drinking water.
- Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
- Wear lightweight, light-coloured, and loose-fitting clothing.
- Watch for the symptoms of heat illness: dizziness/fainting; nausea/vomiting; rapid breathing and heartbeat; extreme thirst; decreased urination with unusually dark urine.
- Outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks in a cool place.
To help keep home or office temperatures lower:
- Turn off lights, computers, and other heat-generating electronics at the end of the day.
- Close window blinds to block sun and heat from entering the room.
- Set ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise to help create a cooling effect.