Heat stress Excessive heat may result in heat stress or heat illness (heat stroke) in which the body overheats causing the body’s core temperature to rise and can result in serious illness or fatality if not treated. During the summer months, always check the Bureau of Meteorology (the Bureau) to plan work that is appropriate for the weather. Local weather conditions are available on the Bureau of Meteorology’s 7-day forecast website (www.bom.gov.au/vic/forecasts/map7day.shtml).The Bureau will issue heatwave warnings via the Bureau of Meteorology website (http://www.bom.gov.au/) or via their app. Heatwaves are determined if three days of unusually high maximum and minimum temperatures for a location are forecast. Know the signs! Extra precautions should be taken for hot or extreme heat days, as identified in the table below. Work should be rescheduled if health and safety of staff cannot be ensured. Heat risks Heat stress & illness prevention • high air temperature • high humidity (limits the body’s ability to cool itself) • radiant heat (from the sun or other sources such as furnaces, ovens and hot vessels) • air movement or wind speed (which can aid cooling but also dehydrate) • workload (intensity and duration of the work) • physical fitness of a person, including acclimatisation • pre-existing circulatory or skin conditions or medicines that can affect the body’s ability to manage heat • clothing (including protective clothing that may restrict air flow across the skin and hinder evaporation of sweat). • Use your vehicle’s air conditioning. • Park your vehicle in the shade where possible. • Although water is generally adequate for • Minimise outdoor work or schedule outdoor or strenuous work in the cooler parts of the day. • Review heat alerts from the Bureau of Meteorology. • On hot days, take additional breaks in the shade. • Wear broadbrimmed hats and light sun- protective clothing. fluid replacement, low joule cordials and electrolyte replacement solutions may be provided to encourage fluid intake. High sugar cordials and sports drinks are not recommended. • Start your work well-hydrated and drink more water every 15 to 20 minutes. • Minimise caffeine, carbonated drinks and avoid alcohol. • Have rest breaks in a cool place. • Inform your employer if you have an underlying health condition that may increase your risk of heat illness; • Maintain a healthy lifestyle (healthy diet and regular exercise). • Stop work and tell your boss if you are feeling tired, dizzy or weak or having trouble concentrating.
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