Working in the Heat

As we approach summer and temperatures start to rise, it’s worthwhile revisiting some of the key aspects of Heat and Employers duties under WHS legislation to manage risk.
 
It is known exposure to hot temperatures leads to a reduction in physical capacity, impaired mental alertness, and altered behaviour among workers, which compromises work, health and safety (WHS), labour productivity and economical yield in occupational settings. Australian studies focusing on heat-related health impacts have found a significant association between the rate of occupational injury claims and higher ambient temperatures and heatwaves.  
 
Various strategies are recommended for workplace heat risk management including engineering and administrative controls. Some of the most effective strategies include, but are not limited to:

• mandatory work-rest arrangements and self-pacing;

• increased fluid intake;

• enhancing heat tolerance (acclimatisation);

• regular screening of workers;

• setting up heat alerts; and

• use of PPE (such as hats, long sleeves).

 
Safe Work Australia (SWA) has developed guidelines for managing the risk of working in the heat, which is based on the risk management framework for managing WHS risks.  All state and territory regulators also provide detailed guidelines and resources regarding the hazard of working in the heat on their websites.