Workplace warning as extreme heat and fire danger hit Victoria
•BlueSafe Team•Source: WorkSafe VIC
WorkSafe Victoria has warned employers to prepare for changes to work arrangements as severe to extreme heat and fire danger threaten worker safety. Temperatures in the low to mid-40s are forecast across much of the state until Friday.
The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe to extreme heatwave warning covering all forecast districts. A total fire ban has also been declared for the Wimmera, South West and Central forecast districts for tomorrow.
WorkSafe Acting Chief Health and Safety Officer Adam Watson said employers must be prepared to adjust work arrangements so workers are not exposed to serious health and safety risks.
"Employers have a legal duty to monitor workplace conditions and manage any risk to health and safety, including those created by extreme weather or natural events," Mr Watson said.
He said employers should develop a strategy suited to their workplace and educate workers to recognise fire risks and signs of heat-related illness in themselves and others.
High temperatures can cause dehydration, heat rash, heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Mr Watson warned that without hydration, rest and cooling down, heat illness could rapidly develop into heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency needing immediate medical attention.
"The best defence is to postpone outdoor work entirely or ensure it can be done safely during cooler parts of the day," he said. He also urged employers to reduce physical exertion and fatigue, including for indoor workers, and encourage regular breaks somewhere cool.
Outdoor activities that could create an ignition source, including welding and other hot works, must not be carried out in total fire ban areas. The VicEmergency app or website provides the latest emergency information.
How Blue Safe can help: Our free WHS Self-Check can help you review your approach to workplace health and safety and identify areas that need closer attention. Take the free WHS self-check