Heat takes a toll, but injuries can be prevented, says WCB Nova Scotia

With temperatures rising across Nova Scotia, WCB Nova Scotia is reminding workers and employers to take heat-related workplace risks seriously.

Since 2015, 201 Nova Scotians have required medical attention or lost time from work due to heat-related injuries or conditions. Although workplace injuries overall remain low, heat-related claims have increased during hotter summers.

In 2018, 34 heat-related workplace injuries were reported. More recently, there were 23 injuries in 2024, 27 in 2025, and eight reported so far in 2026.

Heat Can Affect Any Workplace

Heat exposure can have serious effects. Over the past decade, WCB Nova Scotia reports that 40 workers experienced heat stroke and 26 fainted while at work. Other reported symptoms included heavy sweating, dizziness, cramps, nausea, confusion and sudden weakness.

Fortunately, most workers affected were able to return to work relatively quickly after receiving the care they needed. The numbers are an important reminder that recognizing the risks early can make a difference.

Outdoor and physically demanding work can present greater exposure. Construction recorded 59 heat-related injuries, including 24 associated with road building. Heat-related incidents have also occurred in government services, including firefighting, transportation, public works, parks and natural resources.

However, heat is not only an outdoor concern. Workers in kitchens, manufacturing facilities, health settings and other indoor environments can also be affected by high heat and humidity.

Staying Safe in the Heat

Simple precautions can help reduce the risk of heat-related illness:

• Drink water regularly throughout the day.

• Take appropriate rest breaks.

• Use shade or cooler areas when available.

• Adjust the pace of work during periods of extreme heat.

• Watch for signs such as heavy sweating, dizziness, cramps, nausea or unusual weakness.

• Look out for one another and act quickly if someone begins to feel unwell.

If heat becomes a concern in your workplace, let your manager know so appropriate steps can be taken.

Prevention Starts With Awareness

Hot weather may be unavoidable, but heat-related workplace injuries can often be prevented through awareness, preparation and early action.

As we continue through the summer, remember the basics: stay hydrated, take appropriate breaks, keep cool when possible, and look out for one another.

Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay safe.

Source:

WCB Nova Scotia, “Heat takes a toll, but injuries can be prevented,” August 7, 2026. Additional workplace safety resources are available through WCB Nova Scotia and NovaSAFE.

Resources:

The Safer Workplaces Together initiative, is sharing heat-safety reminders this summer through NovaSAFE, the Province's workplace safety online resource. For more information to prevent injuries, visit: Preventing Injuries | WCB Nova Scotia

Writer:

Flourish Abumere