Working in the heat, especially if you aren’t acclimated, can cause severe illness or death. Unfortunately, workers may experience heat stress at temperatures as low as 65 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if they are exerting themselves. Everyone has different metabolisms and heat tolerances, especially for those not used to working in the heat.
Exertion, motor heat, heavy protective clothing and direct sunlight can all increase the chances of developing heat illnesses for all workers. Strenuous work such as shoveling increases the chances of heat stress compared to sitting. Direct sunlight can also exacerbate the influence of heat on the body.