AS the weather heats up, SafeWork SA has issued a reminder to employers and workers to manage risks associated with heat stress and solar UV.
A recent 2016 Skin Health Australia Report (Skin & Cancer Foundation) found 65 per cent of workers were not provided with clothing to protect them from the sun.
“Last summer, we nearly lost the life of a young worker to heat stress,” SafeWork SA executive director Marie Boland said.
“Employers can minimise the risk of heat by modifying workloads and schedules to avoid the hottest times of day, rotating or sharing ‘hot tasks’ as well as increasing rest breaks and making sure rest areas in shady or cool areas are available.
“Employers should also provide appropriate protective gear to minimise solar UV radiation exposure.”
Workers should wear loose fitting clothing covering their arms and legs, preferably made from a natural fibre, and drink cool water at regular breaks to stay hydrated.
If working indoors, minimising the impact of heat can be as simple as increasing air movement using fans and isolating workers from hot processes or items of plant.
Heat stress symptoms include feeling dizzy, weak, clumsy or disorientated.
If a worker is feeling unwell they should rest in a cool area and drink cool fluids – water ideally – and if they do not recover quickly, seek prompt medical attention.
“Look out for symptoms of heat stress and act immediately if someone appears to be affected, or tell someone straight away if you’re feeling unwell,” Ms Boland said.
