Be Prepared to Beat the Heat
The climate in our country is changing and temperatures continue to rise almost everywhere. As this happens more frequently, areas are exposed to high heat conditions for longer periods of time. Higher heat conditions trigger the criteria for the USPS® Heat Illness Prevention Program (HIPP).
This program is intended for times when outside heat index temperatures are expected to exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit during a workday or work shift. The HIPP was created by the Postal Service™ in 2018 to help provide awareness, highlight potential symptoms, and address issues that could occur from heat-related illnesses and heat exposure.
What are the improvements to the HIPP?
To ensure the HIPP is comprehensive, clear, and updated, the following enhancements will be made:
n Moving forward, the Heat Stress Recognition and Prevention video is required viewing for every newly hired employee.
n Annual refresher training will be provided to everyone and consist of the following safety talks: 1) Heat Illness and Prevention and 2) Annual Refresher. The safety talks will provide the same information contained in the video.
n All employees will have a Heat Illness Prevention publication mailed to their residence. The new HIPP provides multiple access points for information that can keep employees safe during high heat periods.
n The image for the Prevent Heat Illnesses vehicle sticker, badge tag, and poster has also been modernized. Facilities must get the updated versions of all of them.
n Everyone is required to have an updated Prevent Heat Illness badge tag. Also, every vehicle must have an updated Prevent Heat Illnesses sticker and facilities must feature the updated poster.
Using the resources the Postal Service is providing for the HIPP will ensure our employees are well-trained and informed when it comes to preventing heat-related illness. Expanded information will be provided annually to all employees through the program.
Additionally, here are some proactive tips to help beat the heat:
n Hydrate before, during, and after work. Prevention is important — drink at least 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes.
n Dress appropriately for the weather. On warm days, wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing to keep your body temperature down.
n Use the shade to stay cool. When possible, use shaded areas to stay out of direct sunlight.
Heat illness can range from minor discomforts to life-threatening emergencies. The key to prevention is awareness, hydration, and preparation. It’s about understanding the risks that come with working in hot conditions and taking proactive steps to minimize those risks before they become serious. That means planning, staying mindful of changing temperatures, and encouraging a safety-first mindset across all work environments.
