With climate change leading to increasingly extreme weather conditions, understanding how to stay safe during a heat wave has never been more important. Prolonged periods of high temperatures can pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Stay Safe and Healthy During a Heat Wave is designed to equip individuals with the essential knowledge and skills to mitigate the risks associated with excessive heat.
The Occupational Safety, Health and Awareness Association (OSHAA) has introduced a comprehensive 30-hour diploma aimed at promoting heat safety awareness. This diploma program is tailored for individuals, community leaders, and organizations looking to improve their preparedness and response strategies during heat wave events.
Heat waves are more than just uncomfortable—they can be deadly. According to health authorities, high temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, all of which can result in long-term health complications or even death if not treated promptly.
As the frequency and intensity of heat waves continue to rise, proactive education and training become critical. The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Stay Safe and Healthy During a Heat Wave offers a practical and accessible way to gain essential life-saving knowledge. Whether for professional development or personal safety, this course empowers individuals to respond effectively and confidently to one of today’s most pressing climate-related challenges.
OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Stay Safe and Healthy During a Heat Wave
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Heat Waves and Climate Impact (3 hours)
- Explain the definition and causes of heat waves in the context of climate change
- Describe the global and regional trends in rising temperatures
- Understand the environmental and societal impacts of extreme heat events
- Identify the significance of preparedness and resilience in facing heat waves
Understanding Human Physiology and Heat Stress (4 hours)
- Describe how the human body responds to heat exposure
- Identify the signs and stages of heat stress
- Understand thermoregulation and its limitations in extreme temperatures
- Explain the effects of heat on individuals with different health conditions
Identifying Vulnerable Populations and Risk Factors (5 hours)
- Recognise populations at greater risk during heat waves
- Understand socioeconomic and environmental factors contributing to vulnerability
- Identify occupational and lifestyle-related risk factors
- Assess and prioritise risk in various community and workplace settings
Heat-Related Illnesses: Recognition and Symptoms (4 hours)
- Identify common heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke
- Recognise early warning signs and symptoms of each condition
- Differentiate between mild, moderate, and severe heat-related illnesses
- Understand the consequences of delayed treatment
First Aid and Emergency Response for Heat Illnesses (3 hours)
- Apply appropriate first aid techniques for various heat-related conditions
- Develop a rapid response approach to heat emergencies
- Understand when and how to escalate care to medical professionals
- Demonstrate the correct use of emergency cooling methods
Preventative Measures: Hydration, Clothing, and Scheduling (3 hours)
- Understand the importance of regular hydration and proper fluid intake
- Identify suitable clothing and protective gear for hot environments
- Apply strategies for adjusting work and activity schedules in high heat
- Promote behavioural changes to reduce risk of heat exposure
Heat Safety in the Workplace: Employer and Employee Responsibilities (3 hours)
- Understand legal and ethical responsibilities related to heat safety
- Identify key workplace policies to protect workers from heat-related harm
- Promote training, monitoring, and reporting systems
- Encourage a culture of safety and collaboration in hot work environments
Developing a Personal and Organisational Heat Wave Plan (5 hours)
- Create a comprehensive personal heat preparedness plan
- Develop organisational policies and procedures for heat wave response
- Implement communication strategies for effective heat warnings
- Evaluate and adapt heat wave plans based on risk assessments and feedback
Here are the key benefits of enrolling in the OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Stay Safe and Healthy During a Heat Wave:
- Gain essential knowledge to recognise, prevent, and respond to heat-related illnesses
- Improve personal safety and wellbeing during extreme temperature events
- Enhance workplace readiness and compliance with health and safety regulations
- Learn to develop and implement effective heat wave action plans
- Strengthen emergency response skills tailored to heat stress and related conditions
- Acquire the ability to identify vulnerable individuals and support community resilience
- Receive a professionally recognised certification that adds value to your CV
- Build awareness of climate-related risks and their impact on human health
- Empower others through informed leadership and safety advocacy
- Access practical tools and up-to-date resources for long-term preparedness and education
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Stay Safe and Healthy During a Heat Wave is designed for a wide range of individuals and professionals who are exposed to high-temperature environments or are responsible for managing health and safety. This course is ideal for:
- Health and safety officers seeking to enhance their knowledge of heat-related risks
- Employers and managers responsible for staff welfare during extreme weather
- Outdoor workers in construction, agriculture, logistics, and other heat-prone sectors
- Human resource professionals developing workplace safety protocols
- Educators, childcare providers, and caregivers working with vulnerable populations
- Emergency responders and community support workers
- Public health professionals and climate resilience advocates
- Individuals living in regions affected by frequent or severe heat waves
- Volunteers and community leaders involved in crisis planning and support
- Anyone interested in climate adaptation and personal safety education
This course is suitable for both beginners and those with prior experience in occupational health, offering practical insights that are relevant across various industries and settings.
