AS summer approaches, WorkSafeBC is urging B.C. employers to prepare for the health and safety risks associated with extreme heat and wildfire smoke. If not properly managed, these risks can lead to serious injuries for workers, such as heat stress and respiratory problems.

“Hot and smoky conditions during the summer months create challenges for both indoor and outdoor workers,” said Todd McDonald, Head of Prevention Services at WorkSafeBC. “With hazards related to extreme heat becoming more frequent in recent years, employers need to assess risks early and implement effective plans and controls to protect their workers.”

Extreme Heat

Heat stress is a risk for both indoor and outdoor workers in B.C. Extreme heat events can impact indoor environments — like kitchens, warehouses, or manufacturing floors — increasing the risk to workers, especially in areas without air conditioning. When temperatures rise, employers must re-evaluate their indoor workplace conditions and implement appropriate controls, such as ventilation, rest breaks, and access to cool drinking water.

Between 2020 and 2024, WorkSafeBC accepted 315 heat-related injury claims, with the highest numbers in transportation, public works, construction, food services, and film and television production.

During the summer months, outdoor workers also face risks associated with UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure can cause skin damage — making outdoor workers 3.5 times more likely to develop skin cancer than indoor workers.

Wildfire Smoke

Hotter, drier summers in many parts of B.C. are leading to more frequent and intense wildfires — and more workers being exposed to wildfire smoke. Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter and toxic gases that can penetrate deep into the lungs, aggravate respiratory conditions like asthma, and increase the risk of both lung and heart disease. As such, wildfire smoke should be treated as a hazardous substance.

Employer Responsibilities

Employers in B.C. are required to ensure a healthy and safe workplace for their workers, and this includes protecting them from summer-related hazards.
“Employers have a responsibility to protect their workers from heat stress and poor air quality,” said McDonald. “Employers should also involve workers in identifying hazards and developing solutions, which leads to stronger and more effective safety outcomes.”

• Preventing Heat Stress at Work (booklet) 

• Wildfire smoke: Frequently asked questions 

• WorkSafeBC’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulation outlines duties for employers:

• Sections 7.27–7.32 are related to heat exposure. 

• Section 4.80 addresses indoor air quality, specifically temperature and humidity.