As we head into the hotter part of summer it is important to be proactive about putting health and safety first. Heat illnesses occur when the body can’t properly cool itself – normally it does this by sweating, but in hot weather with high humidity sweating is not enough.
Employers have a duty to ensure that they provide a safe workplace, including ensuring that employees are protected from extreme heat. Monitoring weather conditions can help us plan our work in hot weather, and modifying workloads can reduce the risk of heat illnesses.
Some ways to reduce the risk of extreme heat include –
- complete air conditioner maintenance before the heat arrives
- rescheduling hot tasks to the cooler parts of the day
- providing extra rest breaks in a cool, well-ventilated area
- ensuring regular access to cool water
- arrange for more workers to complete the task in a short time
- provide shade when working outdoors
- monitor employees and look out for symptoms of heat illnesses
Familiarise yourself with the symptoms of heat illnesses and if you notice anyone displaying these symptoms, ensure that they immediately rest in a cool, well-ventilated area and drink cool fluids. If symptoms do not quickly improve, or skin is very hot and dry, seek urgent medical assistance.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion – dizziness, headaches, sweaty skin, weakness, cramps, nausea and vomiting, rapid and weak pulse.
Symptoms of heat stroke – red hot dry skin, intense thirst, headaches, nausea and vomiting, high temperature, dizziness and confusion, convulsions, fainting.
Read more: Heat - OHS Reps
Prevention and protection from heat illness | WorkSafe Victoria