As summer approaches, the risk of heat exhaustion and related injuries becomes increasingly concerning. We’ve all experienced sweltering days when the only thing on our minds is cooling off at the beach, nevertheless persevering through. As we head into the hotter months, let’s prioritise safety and wellbeing by staying informed and working smarter rather than harder.
Between 2019 and 2022, Australia saw 2,143 hospital admissions due to heat-related injuries, making heatwaves one of the deadliest natural hazards in the country. Heatstroke poses significant risks, and to complicate it further; many workplace injuries are linked to fatigue from working in high temperatures. These statistics underscore the importance of implementing effective preventive measures.
While Australia does not have a specific legal temperature threshold that mandates a work stoppage, many workplaces have policies and awards that outline safety protocols and considerations. To find relevant information for your workplace, check your award through the P.A.C.T (Pay and Condition Tool).
It’s essential to remember that employers are obligated to provide a safe working environment. However, management may not always be aware of the challenges employees face daily, as they often don’t perform the same tasks. Therefore, a collaborative approach is crucial. Open communication about hazards and how to mitigate them can help create a safer workplace for everyone.
Some recommendations to ensure that you are safe at work are:
- Regular water breaks (small amounts of water regularly)
- Utilising fans, ventilation and air conditioning.
- Prioritising labour-intensive duties in the cooler parts of the day (eg. early morning)
- Being aware and discussing issues with your Health & Safety Representatives (HSRs)
- Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hats, sunscreen and appropriate cool clothing
- Working in pairs and checking up on co-workers regularly
- Familiarise yourself and co-workers with information regarding the treatment heatstroke and dehydration.
Know the signs
Heatstroke and related injuries can affect different people more severely, being aware of the signs can be the difference between life and death.
Early signs of dehydration and heat-related illness include:
- sweating heavily
- having a raised body temperature
- feeling dizzy or faint
- feeling tired and lethargic
- reduced appetite
- feeling thirsty
- being irritable
- twitching or having painful muscle cramps in the arms, legs or abdomen.
The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- headaches
- having a raised body temperature
- sweating heavily
- fatigue, weakness, and restlessness
- nausea and vomiting
- weak, rapid pulse
- poor coordination
- anxiety.
Changes to your workplace heat policy can be made through HSRs and enterprise agreement negotiations. Keep in mind that you have more power when you stick together with your co-workers and have the backing of a union. bargaining power is always increased when backed by unions. Always remember, you have the right to refuse unsafe work. Never preserve if you believe that you are at serious risk of injury as you are not only putting yourself in danger but those around you also.
You can find more information regarding the treatment Heatstroke/Dehydration. Here:
https://www.redcross.org.au/emergencies/prepare/heatstroke-and-heat-exhaustion/