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Feeling the heat? Know your rights when working in the heat this summer

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The Australian summer is a period generally represented by rest and relaxation over Christmas and the New Year, however for those working during this time, there are several risks which can arise during these hot months for workers. Notorious for hosting periods of extreme heat, our Australian summers are predicted to only amplify over the coming years, meaning if you are working this summer in a way that exposes you to any risk of harm or injury it is vital you are aware of your rights and entitlement options.

Risks of Working in the Heat

Spending all day working in the heat introduces several risks that workers can become exposed that represent several hazards. Combining such heat with constant physical exertion and activities that are taxing and tiring on the body is a fast and efficient way that can lead to injury. It is the responsibility of your employer to ensure your ability to work in a safe environment, depicting their obligation to employ safe working mechanisms to limit the chance of injury. Guaranteeing safety whilst working outdoors is no easy feat, and despite WorkSafe requiring employers to remove all risks that are reasonably practicable, it may be necessary to consider:

  • What type of work is being done:
    • Radiant temperatures may be high when working in the sun, particularly on a concrete or metal roof, or near hot machinery processes, and high levels of humidity can make it difficult to cool down.
  • Clothing being worn:
    • Uniforms and standard of dress may impair one’s ability to eliminate sweat, and thus increase risk of heat-related interest.
  • Personal circumstances which may increase susceptibility to heat-related illness:
    • It may be necessary for your employer to implement administrative control measures, so far as is reasonably necessary to tackle heat-related issues. These measures include work methods or procedures that are designed to minimise exposure to a hazard, as well as the information, training and instruction needed to ensure workers can work safely.
    • For example, when working in the heat – hydration is a major risk. It must be insured that workers have sufficient access to hydration is a major risk. It must be insured that workers have sufficient access to hydration means, and workers are encouraged to stay hydrated.

Prominent Injuries

Some of the more prominent risks that frequently lead to injury when working in hot conditions consist of:

  • Heat Stroke
  • Burns when contract is made with hot surfaces or tools
  • Slips and falls, can occur when using sharp tools and hands are damp.
  • Heat rash.
  • Fainting, particularly from sudden standing or rising from a sitting position.
  • Dehydration

Who’s responsible for ensuring safe temperatures in the workplace?

Safe Work Australia’s Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice state that environmental conditions and the health and safety of workers must be monitored – especially when work involves prolonged or repeated exposure to heat or cold.

At both ends of the scale, it is the responsibility of the employer (or the person conducting a business or undertaking) to ensure this “so far as reasonably practicable”, as written in the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011.

Risk assessment is important before any work is undertaken to determine the health and safety risk of working in heat to workers, which can be done using the Queensland Government’s State Heatwaves Risk Assessments 2019 document.

But employers can’t just look at top level factors like the temperature itself though. They must also look at individual personal factors like:

  • Age
  • Health condition
  • Medication
  • Pregnancy
  • Level of physical activity
  • Exposure

At Zaparas Lawyers, we deal with the impacts and consequences alongside an injury in the workplace every day. It is essential that you are aware of compensation options which may entitle you to one of a number of payments to help you recover from your injury. If you are unsure whether you are eligible to receive such options, find more information on our WorkCover page, or contact us for a consultation.