Business owners are reminded to prepare their outdoor workers for extreme heat and protect against sun exposure.
During extreme heat, employers should do what they can to minimise the risk. Where possible, outside work should be relocated so it is completed in a covered, well-ventilated area.
Outdoor workers should wear sun-safe clothing, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses and at least SPF 30+ broad spectrum sunscreen.
Warning signs for heat-related illness include fainting, confusion, intense thirst, dizziness and muscle cramps. If workers notice any of these signs, they should move to a cool place out of the sun, loosen clothing, drink water and seek medical advice.
Businesses can download the Cancer Council’s free SunSmart app. It identifies key sun protection times for all NSW regions and provides two-hourly reminders to re-apply sunscreen.
Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said he can’t stress enough how important it is for outdoor workers to take care in the sun.
“In Australia, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is present every day in varying levels of intensity, whether it’s sunny, rainy or overcast,” Mr Kean said.