Page 79 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT JUNE 2024

6/28/24, 2:15 PM International SOS: Workforce Safety Warning Amid Extreme Heat | ESG Mena
Further, the company recommended making heat stress prevention a core component of health and safety policies.

“Ensure workers have access to shaded areas for breaks, hydration stations to keep hydrated and allow for breathable
workwear suitable for high temperatures,” said International SOS.

Education also has a role to play in protecting workforces, it said, recommending climate-specific training programmes that
focus on working safely in extreme heat. This includes educating employees on proper hydration practices and sun

protection measures.

International SOS said it’s also important to train employees to recognise heat stress symptoms and provide clear protocols
for hydration, rest breaks and cooling down.

Beyond these measures, the International SOS called for companies to develop robust heat response protocols and
effectively communicate those protocols, ensuring the workforce knows who to contact in case of a heat emergency.

Regularly reviewing and updating these policies is also essential in ensuring they reflect the latest information and best
practices for heat safety, International SOS said.

Dr Ehab Chalabie, Medical Director, Medical Services, Middle East, International SOS, noted that while occupational heat

stress used to be primarily an outdoor concern, with rising temperatures, even indoor workplaces without proper ventilation
can become dangerous.

“Organisations must go beyond basic heat stress prevention and integrate heat stress risk assessments into their health and
safety policies,” added Dr Ehab Chalabie.

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