Accidents and Incidents 6 of 8
Heat (Sun-Smart)
Skin cancer is a major public health problem in Australia. It is recognised that both heat related illness and skin cancer are preventable and with the application of suitable control measures, can be prevented in the workplace.
To work safely in the sun, it is important to follow workplace sun protection procedures and use supplied protective equipment.
It is the responsibility of the contractor to implement a preventative strategy including the following actions:
- Increasing employee awareness of:
- Skin and it’s associated risk factors
- Indications of heat related illness
- The importance of applying suitable protective measures.
- Providing employees with protective measures and assistance to minimise:
- Exposure to prolonged unprotected outdoor work
- Discomfort and illness associated with working in high temperatures.
- Providing appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment so that they are able to carry out their tasks safely during periods of UV ray exposure or high temperatures.
