In the lead up to summer the ACT has released its unique Code of Practice: Managing the risks associated with extreme temperatures. The Code recognises that climate change is increasing the frequency, duration and intensity of heatwaves, and so increasing the associated workplace risks from extreme heat.
Whilst the ACT’s Code does not have jurisdiction in Victorian workplaces, in the absence of our own state Compliance Code it serves as a valuable resource and guidance for employers, employees and HSRs in negotiating and implementing workplace thermal policy and procedure to eliminate, manage or mitigate the hazards presented by extreme temperatures, both heat and cold.
Included in the ACT’s Code are useful tools for identifying, assessing and control temperature related hazards:
- Decision-making approach to identify and manage heat stress
- Decision-making approach to identify and manage cold stress
- Heat-related ill health first aid fact sheet
- Risk management checklist – Heat
- Example template – Temperature management plan
The impacts of extreme temperatures are detailed in the Code, raising awareness of the symptoms and enabling easy identification of a person suffering from heat or cold related ill health. Reference to the included first aid fact sheet provides workplace first aid officers with the tools to respond to a colleague in distress and the ability to gauge when emergency medical assistance should be sought.
The risk management checklist and temperature management plan template are particularly useful documents – employers can work through these in consultation with their employees and HSRs to identify contributing factors to extreme temperature hazards. As with most Codes a range of potential controls are presented to assist employers in determining the best combination of options to implement in their workplace to ensure a safe work environment.
The Code emphasises the need for employers to plan for risks ahead of time and engage with workers early in the process through robust consultation and communication. These discussions should be happening well ahead of peak temperature seasons to allow time for proper consultation. Workplaces should also continue to monitor conditions and revise their approach accordingly to maintain a safe working environment.
Read more: Managing the risks associated with working in extreme temperatures factsheet