ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Occupational heat stress

Imagine you're playing outside on a very hot day without any water or shade. Your body starts to heat up and you feel really tired and sweaty. That's called heat stress.

Now imagine you're an adult who has to work really hard outside in the heat, like construction workers or farmers. They are at risk of getting heat stress because their bodies are working really hard and they can't always take breaks or drink enough water.

When adults work in the heat for a long time, their bodies can get really tired and even sick. They might feel dizzy or faint, and can get headaches, cramps, and heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

To stay safe, workers need to take breaks in the shade, drink lots of water, wear light and loose clothes, and take other precautions to cool themselves down. Employers also need to make sure workers have enough water and rest breaks, work during cooler times of the day, and have a plan in case someone gets sick.
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