WorkSafe ACT is urging people to think about the work health and safety risks associated with exposure to extreme heat now that summer is in full swing.
Work Health and Safety Commissioner, Jacqueline Agius said heat affected everyone differently so it was important to make sure the health and safety of workers wasn’t compromised.
“Persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) have a responsibility to do everything they can to eliminate or minimise the risks associated with working in the heat for their workers,” Ms Agius said.
“PCBU’s have a duty of care to make sure workplaces, both indoor and outdoor workplaces, meet work health and safety requirements,” she said.
Ms Agius said some practical things PCBU’s could do to minimise risks during extreme heat included working indoors in a cool space during the middle of the day; arranging access to shelter, shade or air-conditioned spaces; using plant or other equipment to reduce physical labour; and making sure workers had suitable person protective equipment, sun protection and access to drinking water.
“Working in heat is often overlooked or not prioritised as a work health and safety issue, but if the risks aren’t managed properly there’s the potential for serious injury to workers,” the Commissioner said.
“Everyone deserves to work in a safe environment,” she said.
Ms Agius encouraged workers to speak to their supervisor or Health and Safety Representative if they had concerns about working in the heat
Further information about working in heat, including risk management and training for workers, can be accessed from the WorkSafe website at this PS News link.
