Beating the heat this summer

As we head into the summer months, WorkCover NSW is urging all businesses and workers in the region to protect themselves when working in the heat.

The general manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division, John Watson, said working in the heat came with its own risks which, if not managed effectively, can lead to serious workplace injuries or death.

“Working in hot and sunny conditions during the summer months can lead to fatigue and heat stress,” Watson said.

“This can affect a worker’s health, reducing their performance and productivity, and increasing the chance of a workplace injury through reduced ability to concentrate, recognise risks and communicate effectively.

“In fact, in the three years to July 2012 there were 419 claims for workplace fatigue and heat stroke at a cost of $4.2 million to the NSW Workers Compensation Scheme.”

Watson said businesses and workers needed to take steps to protect themselves.

“Businesses must provide sun safety information, instruction, training and supervision to their workers,” he said.

“They should also set realistic workloads and work schedules, ensure fair distribution of work and provide regular rest breaks.

“If possible, they should try to reschedule work to cooler times of the day such as early mornings or late afternoons.

“They should also ensure workers have access to plain drinking water, at least 200 mL every 15-20 minutes, rather than caffeinated drinks which can have a diuretic affect, [and] provide shaded rest areas and frequent rest breaks.

“Workers can be exposed to UV radiation when working in the shade as well as in the sun, so it is important to wear sun protection in all outdoor conditions.

“Workers should be provided clothing with a UPF 50+ rating, such as loose shirts with long sleeves [and] collars and long pants.

“They should also be provided with broad spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+, broad-brimmed hats and sunglasses which meet Australian standards for UV protection.”

Watson said WorkCover’s Small Business Rebate offered up to $500 to help small businesses and sole traders purchase and install safety improvements to manage the risks associated with working in the heat.

“The Small Business Rebate covers a broad range of safety solutions, providing small businesses with the flexibility to fix specific risks in their workplaces,” Watson said.

“The rebate can be used by rural and outdoor businesses to purchase shade protection for workers which reduces UV exposure.”

Further information on the Small Business Rebate as well as heat stress management and working safely in the sun is available from www.workcover.nsw.gov.au or by calling 13 10 50. Other sun safety resources are available from the Cancer Council at www.cancercouncil.com.au.