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As the summer sun beats down, New Zealand’s tradies find themselves facing the sweltering heat that comes with the season. Working outdoors during these months isn’t just uncomfortable; it poses significant health risks that both employees and employers must carefully manage. Understanding these risks and adopting comprehensive prevention and protection strategies is critical for the […]
As the summer sun beats down, New Zealand’s tradies find themselves facing the sweltering heat that comes with the season. Working outdoors during these months isn’t just uncomfortable; it poses significant health risks that both employees and employers must carefully manage. Understanding these risks and adopting comprehensive prevention and protection strategies is critical for the health and safety of those on the frontline of our building and construction industries.
The primary concern for any tradie working under the summer sun is the risk of heat-related illnesses. These range from mild heat cramps to more severe conditions like heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heat stroke. The symptoms can sneak up unexpectedly, with dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, heavy sweating, extreme fatigue, and nausea as tell-tale signs that the body is struggling to cope with the heat.
On top of this is the risk of sunburn, which not only causes immediate discomfort but also increases the long-term risk of skin cancer. New Zealand’s high UV index makes sunburn a particularly serious issue, especially for tradies who spend long hours outdoors. Prolonged exposure to UV rays without proper protection can lead to serious skin damage and necessitate medical intervention, which highlights the importance of effective sun protection measures.
Tradies can take several proactive steps to protect themselves, such as wearing lightweight, breathable clothing that covers as much skin as possible while still allowing for ventilation. Opting for light colours will reflect the sun’s rays better than darker shades, providing an extra layer of protection against heat absorption. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses are also essential to shield the face and eyes from direct sunlight.
Hydration is another vital aspect of staying safe in the heat. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain the body’s cooling mechanisms and prevents dehydration. It’s advisable for tradies to drink water every fifteen to twenty minutes, even if they do not feel thirsty, as thirst is a late indicator of dehydration.
Sunscreen is a must-have in any tradie’s toolkit during the summer. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher should be applied liberally on all exposed skin and reapplied every two hours or more frequently if sweating heavily or wiping skin often. This simple chore can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and, by extension, skin cancer.
On top of personal prevention strategies, employers in the construction and building industry have a legal obligation to ensure the health and safety of their workers.
This includes assessing the risks of heat exposure and implementing appropriate measures to mitigate them. Employers can support their teams by:
Education also plays a crucial role in keeping tradies safe in the summer heat. Employers should provide training that helps workers recognise the signs of heat-related illnesses and understand the importance of UV protection. Additionally, creating a workplace culture where health and safety are prioritised encourages workers to take necessary breaks and hydrate regularly without feeling pressured to do otherwise.
Emergency procedures should be clearly outlined and communicated to all employees. In the event that a tradie shows signs of severe heat-related illness, such as confusion, fainting, or seizures, quick and effective action can be the difference between a minor health issue and a critical emergency. Workers should be trained on first-aid measures and know how to contact emergency services when necessary.
Adapting work practices to the challenges of summer is essential for maintaining productivity without compromising safety. This might include:
Navigating the summer months safely requires awareness, preparation, and cooperation from both tradies and their employers. By understanding the risks and embracing comprehensive prevention and protection strategies, we can ensure that the heat does not melt away the health of our valuable workforce.
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