Heat Risk: A Predictable Medical and Performance Issue

GFS Insider: February Edition

Heat exposure is no longer occasional. It is becoming a consistent operational factor. The World Meteorological Organisation confirmed that 2024 was the warmest year on record, reinforcing the broader upward trend observed in recent years. Since then, regulators have continued to formalise expectations around heat management, with OSHA advancing a federal Heat Injury and Illness Prevention standard.  

On production, heat rarely begins as a dramatic medical emergency. It usually starts with reduced concentration, slower reactions, irritability, and fatigue. These early indicators often go unnoticed - yet they directly affect decision-making and performance. 

The increased exposure shows up in:  

• Driving and transport 

• Rigging and elevated work 

• Manual handling and construction 

• Water-based environments 

• Any task requiring sustained concentration or coordination  

Heat builds gradually. Long days, compressed schedules, PPE-heavy work, reflective surfaces, and limited cooling infrastructure reduce judgement over time. Crew may push through discomfort without reporting it, particularly in high-performance environments. 

In remote or wilderness locations, the exposure increases further. Slower medical response, limited shade, restricted water access, and reduced infrastructure compound risk. 

The response does not need to be complex. It needs to be structured and visible. 

Practical controls include: 

• A clear daily heat plan covering hydration, shade or cooling, rest breaks, and escalation triggers 

• Scheduling heavier or outdoor work outside of peak temperature time periods

• Briefing crews on early symptoms and clear reporting pathways 

• Giving medics or first aiders authority to step in early 

• Reassessing risk when location, workload, or weather conditions shift 

Heat is predictable. The goal is to ensure the response is equally predictable. 

Looking to strengthen how your production manages heat exposure?  

SetConnect enables productions to embed structured heat planning into daily operations – from documented control measures and escalation pathways to real-time reporting and oversight.  

Get in touch to see how it could support your next production.