Safety Hazards in Summer’s Heat

Summer can bring numerous safety hazards – we are currently seeing a heatwave in southern Europe, and it’s best to be prepared if things heat up here too.  As temperatures rise, it’s vital for employers to prioritise the well-being and safety of their staff. One safety challenge for employers is balancing productivity and output from employees working outdoors, and keeping them safe and well while working. Office workers may also have problems coping with the heat, so ensuring air conditioning systems are properly functioning is a must.

Scorching heat can pose a significant risk to employees, potentially leading to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.  It’s important to emphasise the need to stay hydrated by providing adequate drinking water, encouraging regular breaks, and implementing policies that allow employees to adapt their clothing to stay cool. Electrolyte drinks can also help to replace minerals lost through perspiration.

Employees who work outdoors or in hot environments must be protected from the sun, which can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage. Promote the use of sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing and if possible, provide shaded areas or sun umbrellas to minimise direct sun exposure.

Recognise the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke – at work and at home

If anyone exhibits signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, it’s important to recognise the symptoms and react swiftly.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Heavy sweating
• Cold, pale, clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fainting

If you or someone else is experiencing heat exhaustion:

• Move to a cool place
• Loosen clothes
• Put cool, wet cloths on your body or take a cool bath
• Get medical help if you or someone else is vomiting, or the symptoms get worse or persist for more than an hour

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Body temperature of 103 F / 39.4 C or higher
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Fainting

Here’s what to do if you or someone else is experiencing heat stroke:

• Call 999
• Move the person to a cooler place
• Put cool, wet cloths on their body or place them in a cool bath

The signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the same for both adults and children, but a baby or younger child may not be able to vocalise how they’re feeling. Ensure children are consistently drinking, urinating frequently, and that they look alert.

As we adapt to changes in the world’s climate, employers have a key role in helping to educate people about the risks of sun and heat exposure. Simple measures and common sense go a long way to minimise the risks to make sure everyone stays safe and well.