As the weather heats up and we spend more time outdoors – for work and for fun – WorkCover NSW reminds all businesses and workers to protect themselves when working in the sun to prevent fatigue, sunburn and heat-stress.

WorkCover recommends employers take the following actions to reduce workers’ exposure to UV radiation and prevent fatigue:

• Provide and maintain equipment and shelter to protect workers from the sun
• Provide sun safety information, instruction, training and supervision
• Rotate tasks to lesson exposure to the sun as well as mental and physical fatigue, and schedule work at cooler times of the day
• Have regular rest periods in addition to scheduled meal breaks
• Provide water and encourage workers to stay hydrated
• Provide personal protective equipment such as:
  • Clothing with UPF 50+ rating, loose shirts with long sleeves, collars and long pants
  • Broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Sunglasses which meet Australian Standards for UV protection
  • Use plant, machinery and equipment to eliminate or reduce the excessive physical demands of the job

It is worth taking these suggestions on board when working (or playing) outside at home or on holidays. In summary:

CLOTHES – Cover up and protect skin

WATER – Keep well-hydrated

REST – Take regular breaks out of the sun.

Read more about heat stress on the WorkCover website.