It’s wise to exercise caution when working in hot weather conditions
In Australia, we’re blessed with endless sunny days and blue skies, but when the temperature soars it can spell disaster for workers. “Heat is a hazard in many Australian workplaces, whether work is performed indoors or outdoors,” says the Safe Work Australia CEO. “Eliminating the hazard is the first priority for worker safety. Sometimes this may mean cancelling or rescheduling work for when there are cooler conditions.”
Who’s most at risk?
Anyone can be at risk of heat-related illness under certain conditions, but at greater risk are workers:
- exposed to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- exposed to reflected heat from construction materials, polished aluminium and glass.
- carrying out strenuous tasks or work for sustained long periods.
- who are exposed to additional heat from machinery.
- in hotter parts of the country, such as northern parts of Queensland.
Note that this advice also applies to people working outdoors in their leisure time, such as gardening or home maintenance.
Overheating at work
Heat-related problems at work can be caused by:
- inadequate rest periods out of the heat and insufficient fluid consumption.
- weather conditions such as low air movement, high humidity, and high temperature.
- factors that may cause dehydration such as vomiting and diarrhoea.
- dehydration caused by alcohol and caffeine consumption.
- medical conditions such as heart problems, diabetes and hypertension.
- medication that may affect the body’s temperature regulation.
- increasing age, poor general physical fitness and being overweight.
Working in the sun
If you work outside, you’re at risk of exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, even when it’s cloudy. Remember though that UV radiation is even higher in summer than in winter. Sun exposure can cause permanent and irreversible damage to the skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.
What you can do
- work indoors, where possible.
- avoid working outside in the hottest parts of the day.
- stick to shade and sheltered areas.
- use sun protective clothing, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Be well informed
Download the Cancer Council SunSmart app, which allows you to access the latest information on UV levels and weather forecasts. Find it on cancer.org.au.
Check the heatwave service at bom.gov.au/australia/heatwave
This article was previously published in the Well at Work Newsletter
