Heat awareness campaign launched by WorkCover NSW for February

A summer campaign has been launched by WorkCover NSW urging workers to prevent heat stress, by limiting time out in the sun, drinking plenty of water and taking breaks.

The initiative was introduced to highlight the dangers of working in the heat during summer, with the general manager of WorkCover's Work Health and Safety Division, John Watson, commenting that the risks of heat-stress can be deadly.

"Fatigue and heat stress can affect a worker’s health, reducing their performance and productivity, and increasing the chance of a workplace injury through reduced ability to concentrate, recognise risks and communicate effectively," Mr Watson said.

"We’re currently in the hottest months of the year and it’s why we’re urging workers to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated when working during the hottest times of the day as it is the best source of hydration."

Those employed in the construction or the electricity sector will need to be extra vigilant when working in the heat as a result of working with high risk tools and equipment.

Mr Watson said that in the three years to July 2011, there were almost 500 claims for workplace fatigue and heat stroke.

"Every worker should come home safely at the end of the working day and through this campaign we hope to prevent further workplace injuries and fatalities from heat stress this summer," he said.