Nick Johns-Wickberg
As large swathes of Australia brace for the first of many expected heatwaves this summer, SafeWork NSW is calling on businesses to put plans in place to keep workers safe. With temperatures forecast to rise to 15°C above December averages in Sydney over the weekend, and other parts of NSW already experiencing daily maximums well above 40°C, businesses should start preparing and acting immediately.
Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin says communication between employers and workers is key to remaining safe in times of extreme heat.
“As the weather gets warmer, it’s important businesses and workers start to talk about the procedures they will use to keep everyone safe from heat-related illnesses,” Curtin says. “If the weather becomes too hot and can’t be avoided then the job might have to be stopped. Worker safety must come first.”
Curtin points out that hydration is essential, especially for those working outdoors.
“Workers are reminded to listen to their body when the temperature rises and to drink plenty of water,” he says. “It is vital you do not replace water with soft drinks, energy drinks or coffee, as these can dehydrate you further.”
Employers have the primary duty of care for employees and are encouraged by SafeWork NSW to develop a workplace heat management plan. The SafeWork website offers tips for creating a plan in consultation with health and safety representatives and workers.
Heat-related illness by the numbers
According to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, there were 17 reported deaths from work-related heat stress in Australia between 2000 and 2015.
A different report published in November 2023 by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare shows that there were 677 recorded deaths attributable to extreme heat across Australia between 2011 and 2021. This figure includes work-related and non-work-related deaths.
Interestingly, the same report finds that male workers with less than one year of work experience had a 31 per cent increase in (workplace compensation) claims during moderately intense heatwaves. This suggests that inexperienced workers are less able to identify the signs of heat stress and are more likely to push themselves beyond their limitations.
Heat-related illness can include a range of progressive conditions, such as dehydration, fainting, heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. As part of their safety plan, employers should educate their workers about the symptoms of heat-related illness and look out for any signs.
They should also provide shade where possible, rotate tasks to reduce exposure, schedule work at cooler times of the day, enforce regular breaks, and provide personal protective equipment such as hats, long-sleeve shirts, and sunscreen.
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