Symmetrical Group

Policies and Procedures

OHS&E\SAFETY PROCEDURES


SG-PR-33-22 Heat Stress and UV Radiation Management


Purpose

The effects of heat stress and UV Radiation range from simple discomfort to life threatening illnesses such as heat stroke and skin cancer. Aside from the environmental factors (such as temperature, humidity, air movement, and radiant heat), the person’s work regime and clothing requirements are also factors that determine the risk of heat strain. Follow these three steps to manage heat stress in your workplace.


Scope

This procedure applies to all staff.


Procedure

Use of Sunscreen

Sun screen is supplied to all personnel, if you are working in the outdoors you are advised to use sun block.

Monitoring and Limiting Heat Strain

Monitoring signs and symptoms of heat-stressed workers may be needed when clothing may significantly reduce heat loss, excessive heat strain is indicated when one or more of the following occur:

An individual’s exposure to heat stress should be discontinued when any of the above conditions or symptoms occurs. Also, an individual may be at greater risk if profuse sweating is sustained over hours, weight loss over a shift is greater than 1.5% of body weight, or 24-hour urinary sodium excretion is less than 50 milli-moles.

If a worker appears to be disoriented or confused, or suffers inexplicable irritability, malaise, or flu-like symptoms, the worker should be removed for rest in a cool location with rapidly circulating air and kept under skilled observation. Immediate emergency care may be necessary.

If sweating stops and the skin becomes hot and dry, immediate emergency care with hospitalization is essential.


Date published: 25/07/2013


Document ID:

437

Last reviewed:

16/03/2009

Revision No:

5

Approved by:

..


* -25/07/2013 12:27:06 PM