Tips to beat the heat this summer

As temperatures start to rise, WorkCover NSW is encouraging businesses to ensure their workers are protected when working in the heat.

According to John Watson, general manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division, working in the heat comes 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.”

WorkCover’s Small Business Rebate offers small businesses and sole traders up to $500 to 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.”

Businesses are obliged to take action to protect their employees, Watson said, including:

• providing sun safety information, instruction, training and supervision to their workers;
• setting realistic workloads and work schedules, ensuring fair distribution of work and providing regular rest breaks;
• rescheduling work to cooler times of the day such as early mornings or late afternoons where possible;
• ensuring 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;
• providing shaded rest areas and frequent rest breaks;
• providing workers with clothing with a UPF 50+ rating such as loose shirts with long sleeves, collars and long pants;
• providing workers with broad spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+, broad-brimmed hats and sunglasses which meet Australian Standards for UV protection.

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.