The Australian Institute of Health and Safety is urging workers to stay safe during extreme heat. Photo: AAP Image/Erik Anderson
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AAP Image/Erik Anderson
As summer heats up and employees return to work, the Australian Institute of Health and Safety is urging Australians to be safe out in the sun.
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Although slightly cooler in comparison to this time last year, January temperatures in Echuca have hit a high of 39.8°C, with an average of 32.8°C.
Echuca Moama Plant Farm owner Craig Turner said his business took extra precautions during the hotter days.
“Preparation is certainly the key,” he said.
“All our staff dread summer more than they dread winter ... in winter you don’t have to worry about getting sunburnt or heat stroke.
“We as employers ... take extra precautions such as having extra breaks, providing water and sunscreen and we actually provide hydralyte icy poles.
“On extreme fire days, we’ll have toolbox meetings to talk about what that means, what we need to look for and making sure the fire pumps are all hooked up.”
Exposure to extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and life-threatening heat stroke.
Extreme heat can also trigger heart attacks, strokes, kidney impairment and worsen respiratory illnesses, especially around pollution or smoke.
Australia also has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with more than 95 per cent of cases directly linked to solar UV radiation.
AIHS chair Cameron Montgomery said it was important to be prepared for any weather-related situations.
“If you’re regularly on the road for work, ensure you have an emergency kit packed with water, food, a torch, medication and other essential items,” he said.
“Weather-related risks can be monitored and mitigated. Everyone has the right to go to work and return home safely.”
27°C