Antinuclear

Health dangers in the heat wave

Warning of health risks in the heat http://www.sunraysiadaily.com.au/story/2018053/warning-of-health-risks-in-the-heat/?cs=1259 Tony Masterson, Jan. 13, 2014,   The first heat wave of 2014 is upon us, and while the scorching sun is a regular feature of the Mallee summer, we must not become complacent about its dangers – especially for those of us who work outdoors.

According to SunSmart, outdoor workers in Australia receive five to 10 times more sun exposure than indoor workers, placing them at an increased risk of skin damage and skin cancer

Construction workers have a higher risk of skin cancer than many other workers because of their exposure to ultraviolent radiation, through direct sunlight and reflected sun. Similarly, agricultural workers have a higher rate of contracting skin cancer.

Between 1999 and 2002, death rates of skin cancer for male farmers and farm managers aged were almost 60 per cent higher than the general population. At least one in every two Australians will require treatment some time in their life for various forms of skin cancer.

Workplace health and safety laws require employers to provide a safe working environment, which includes protection against risks associated with working in heat. This is the first really hot working week of the summer for many people in Mildura, so everyone needs to take extra care to make sure they look after themselves, their employees and their workmates.

Simple things like rescheduling work to cooler parts of the day, making sure there is drinking water available, and providing outdoor workers with sunscreen and protective clothing can help to keep workers safe during this scorching heat.

January 13, 2014 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | General News