Northwestern Environmental Health and Safety

Spotlight on Safety

VOLUME 10, ISSUE 6 | JUNE 2026

Summer weather

As summer approaches, you should remain mindful of the environmental hazards that can accompany outdoor work. High temperatures, humidity, thunderstorms, lightning, and other changing weather conditions can create health and safety risks. Similar hazards may also be encountered in certain indoor environments, such as steam vaults, utility tunnels, and mechanical rooms.

Each year, many workers are affected by weather-related illnesses and injuries. Staying aware of changing conditions, recognizing hazards, and following appropriate precautions are key to responding safely.

If you may be exposed to heat or other weather-related hazards on campus, ensure you are current on required training, including Heat Stress in the Workplace and Severe Weather and Outdoor Work training available through myHR Learn. Understanding these risks and following established safety procedures can help prevent injuries and illnesses.

HEAT STRESS IN THE WORKPLACE TRAINING

SEVERE WEATHER AND OUTDOOR WORK TRAINING

Heat illness prevention

Heat-related illnesses can range from heat cramps and heat rash to more serious conditions such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Signs and symptoms may include muscle cramps, headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, confusion, excessive sweating, or fainting.

Remember that heat stress risk is influenced by more than just temperature. Humidity, direct sunlight, physical exertion, personal protective equipment, hydration status, and individual health factors can all increase risk. To stay safe:

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Take breaks in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned areas.
Plan outdoor work around weather conditions and temperatures.
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing when appropriate.

If you or a coworker shows signs of heat-related illness, move to a cool area, drink water, and notify a supervisor immediately. Call 911 for severe symptoms such as confusion, loss of consciousness, or seizures.

For additional information on heat-related hazards, prevention measures, and emergency response procedures, review the Northwestern Heat Illness Prevention Program.

Severe weather and outdoor work

Outdoor work can quickly become hazardous when weather conditions change. Be aware of risks such as flooding from heavy rain, lightning during storms, strong winds and flying debris, and slip or visibility hazards. If you must be outside, maintain situational awareness and have a clear plan to reach shelter quickly.

If storms develop while you are working, stop work and move indoors or into a hard-topped vehicle at the first sign of lightning or thunder. Avoid using electrical tools or equipment in wet conditions unless specifically designed for such use, and do not work at heights during rain or high winds. Dress appropriately for the conditions and use required personal protective equipment (e.g., rain gear, high-visibility apparel).

Water intrusion into campus facilities from flooding can create electrical hazards, mold growth, property damage, and other safety concerns. Review the Northwestern Storm Water Emergency Response Plan and Water Intrusion Guide to understand appropriate response steps, including how to safely assess affected areas, report conditions promptly, and prevent further damage. Early reporting and proper containment are critical to protecting facilities and occupants and supporting timely remediation.

Plan ahead

Monitor local forecasts regularly to stay informed of current and changing weather conditions. When severe weather or high temperatures are expected, avoid outdoor activities whenever possible by rescheduling or relocating work indoors. If outdoor work is unavoidable, ensure appropriate controls and precautions are in place to maintain safety throughout the duration of the activity.

Do you want to learn more?

Review the Northwestern natural disaster guidelines.
Contact the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) team at ehs@northwestern.edu.
Review past Spotlight on Safety discussions.

We want your feedback! Please complete this brief anonymous survey. Do you have a safety story you'd like to share? If so, please contact ehs@northwestern.edu.