Heat-Related Illness Resources

As extreme heat and humidity become more frequent, it is vital for agricultural employers and workers to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses before, during, and after outdoor labor. As each person's heat tolerance varies, it is important to be aware of the symptoms, risk factors, and measures you can take to prevent heat-related illnesses while on the job.

In collaboration with the New Jersey Departments of Health and Labor and Rutgers Cooperative Extension, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture has developed educational graphics for employees to reference and a voluntary Heat Illness Management & Prevention Plan for employers to implement. This plan provides essential guidance for ensuring your farm operation implements measures that will help keep farmworkers safe during periods of extreme heat. A Daily Checklist Template is also provided below for supervisors to track heat index and/or Wet Bulb Globe Temperature throughout the work shift and document implementation of the Heat Illness Management & Prevention Plan measures such as providing drinking water, shade access, and rest breaks.

See below for educational graphics available in both English and Spanish, NJDA’s Heat Illness Management & Prevention Plan and Daily Checklist templates, and additional resources made available by Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the New Jersey Departments of Health and Environmental Protection.