Summer is fast approaching and although we have been dealing with milder than usual weather in South Australia throughout spring, we cannot disregard the coming Summer months. It is an opportune time to reinforce the necessary steps that need to be taken in dealing with the hazards presented at work when temperatures increase.
Employers (PCBU’s) have a duty of care to ensure they are not putting their workers’ health and safety at risk. Unless it is specified in workplace employment agreements, the work health and safety legislation does not set temperatures at which a worker may be sent home, nor does it determine acceptable levels of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure.
Each workplace environment is different, and the onus is on the employer to manage any risks, in consultation with their workers. If it is not possible to eliminate exposure to UVR or increased temperature, the risk of skin damage and heat-related illness must be minimised so far as is reasonably practicable.
Heat stress can be a concern in various work locations, including working outdoors, in industrial sheds/workshops, and in confined spaces. It can impair a worker’s ability to concentrate and also to make proper judgements or decisions. A worker suffering from heat stress may experience symptoms such as headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, fainting and confusion. Burns and dehydration can also occur as a result of working in hot conditions.
Here are a few simple steps to follow in keeping cool in the heat especially when the forecasted minimum for any given day is above 30 degrees (C):
Identify hazards associated with working in the heat and UVR exposurePlan ahead and ensure all practicable measures for preventing heat illness and overexposure to UVR can be implemented Schedule work so that the more physical demanding tasks are done during the cooler times of the day. Contact the Workplace Relations Department to enquire as to what flexibilities you can utilise in the Awards starting and finishing times Provide fresh drinking water and regular breaks to ensure that workers are well hydrated.Ensure all workers are aware of heat stress symptoms so they can monitor themselves and their workmatesProvide workers with access to shelter, additional rest breaks and encourage people to stay hydratedMove work indoors if possibleCreate cool down areasEnable workers to take regular breaks or rotate with others where possible to reduce their exposure to UVR and heat sources Provide adequate ventilation and air-flow through the use of industrial fans All personal & protective equipment (PPE) should still be worn to prevent any injuries. Provide adequate personal protection to workers including hats and sun block, when working outdoors Ensure that workers affected by heat stress inform management as soon as possible so that any concerns are addressed Request staff to notify supervisors or management if any co-workers appear to be affected by heat stress Provide an air conditioned space for workers to take breaks
In addition to heat related injuries and illnesses, there is also a higher risk in the automotive workplace associated with heat related hazards including:
Overheated cooling systemsFire or explosions from welding, grindingFire risks from oils, chemicals, tyres, etc.
In relation to the above, always ensure that:
Vehicles are allowed enough time to cool before checking cooling systemsAll workers are to wear appropriate PPE when working with cooling systems or heated equipmentWelding and grinding should be completed in controlled environmentLocal fire restrictions are taken into consideration All fire extinguishers are adequately serviced and in good working orderStaff are trained in the use of fire equipment where practicalYour emergency evacuation plan is properly displayed and well understood
Remember that you are also required to report any ‘notifiable’ incident – re serious injury/illness or dangerous incident – to SafeWork SA. Stay safe and enjoy the summer months!