As Aussies, we usually dread the baking summer heat, especially those of us who labour under the hot sun.
While we do appreciate the sunshine, it presents a serious health risk for those working outdoors. Particularly employees who have physically demanding trade jobs like roofers, carpenters, brickies and trades labourers.
Indoor factory environments, and underground mining are all areas where there is a significant risk of work place hyperthermia
Hyperthermia, or overheating, is a growing concern in the Australian workplace, and employers have a duty of care to protect their workers.
In this blog, I will talk about some of the causes, symptoms, and devastating outcomes of workplace hyperthermia.
We'll look into legal obligations, risk control measures, and essential first aid responses, equipping you with the knowledge to create a safer work environment.
Identifying high risk workplaces
While anyone can experience hyperthermia, many workers are at increased risk:
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Outdoor workers: Construction workers, farmers, landscapers, and those in emergency services face direct sun exposure and strenuous physical activity.
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Indoor workers in hot environments: Employees in factories, warehouses, kitchens, and laundries can be exposed to high temperatures and humidity.
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Workers wearing PPE: Protective clothing and equipment can mitigate heat dissipation, increasing the risk for those in mining, manufacturing, and healthcare.
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Individuals with pre-existing conditions: People with heart conditions, diabetes, or obesity are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Recognising the Signs: Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke
Hyperthermia can progress rapidly, making early recognition critical.
Heat Exhaustion:
This is the body's response to excessive fluid and salt loss. Symptoms include:
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Profuse sweating
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Pale skin
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Muscle cramps
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Headache
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Nausea and vomiting
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Dizziness
Heat Stroke:
A medical emergency where the body's temperature regulation fails. Symptoms include:
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High body temperature (above 40°C)
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Hot, red, dry skin (sweating may stop)
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Rapid pulse
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Confusion, disorientation, seizures
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Loss of consciousness
Case Study: A Tragic Loss in the Construction Industry
Daniel Talolua Sa'u:
In south of Brisbane QLD,, Daniel Talolua Sa'u, tradie and father of 3 was found dead in his vehicle on 28th Dec 2024.
With high humidity levels and temperatures of over 36.1 degrees and heavy PPE uniforms, Daniel left the Cross River Rail project site at around 1pm suffering with symptoms described by his union as “severe heat stress”.
Several other workers from the site had already been hospitalised for heat related illness.
At 3:30, less than 5 kms from the site, Daniel was found deceased in his vehicle, attempting to make his way home.
While the investigation into the exact cause of death is ongoing, officials believe that the leading cause of death was due to exertional heat stress.
This is a tragic, but common example of the extreme risk in seemingly pretty standard Aussie summer temperatures.
Legal Obligations: What Employers Need to Know
Under Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, employers are legally required to provide a safe working environment. This includes managing the risks of heat stress. Key responsibilities are:
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Risk assessment: Identifying hazards and assessing the risk of heat illness in the workplace.
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Control measures: Implementing effective controls such as
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Providing shade and ventilation
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Modifying work schedules to avoid peak heat hours
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Providing cool drinking water and encouraging regular breaks
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Implementing a heat stress management plan
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Training and information: Educating workers about the risks of hyperthermia, prevention strategies, and first aid procedures.
First Aid for Hyperthermia: Rapid Cooling is Key
If someone displays signs of heat stroke, immediate action is vital:
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Call for help: Dial Triple Zero (000) for emergency medical assistance.
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Move to a cool place: Transfer the person to a shaded ventilated area.
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Rapidly cool the body:
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Cold Water Immersion (CWI): If possible, immerse the person in cold water (15-20°C) up to their neck.
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Strip, Soak, Fan: Remove excess clothing, soak the person with cool water, and fan them vigorously.
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Targeted Active Cooling (TACO): Apply ice packs to the groin, armpits, and neck while fanning.
Cooling Methods: From Basic to Advanced
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Basic Cooling: Access to shade, fans, cool drinks, and regular breaks are fundamental.
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Advanced Cooling: For high-risk workplaces, consider:
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Cooling vests: These utilise evaporative cooling to lower body temperature.
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Misting fans: These create a fine mist that cools the air through evaporation.
- Air-conditioned rest areas: Providing a dedicated space for workers to cool down during breaks.
The Role of Technology in Heat Stress Management
Technology is playing an increasing role in mitigating hyperthermia risks.
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Wearable sensors: These devices can monitor workers' core body temperature and provide alerts when they approach dangerous levels.
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Environmental monitoring systems: These systems track temperature, humidity, and other factors in real-time, allowing for proactive adjustments to work practices.
- Heat stress apps: Thermal Risk App can provide personalized heat risk assessments and guidance on hydration and cooling strategies.
For more info go to
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Safe Work Australia: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/
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Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation (ANZCOR): https://www.anzcor.org/
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Sports Medicine Australia (SMA): https://sma.org.au/
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Cancer Council Australia: https://www.cancer.org.au/ (for information on sun safety and skin cancer risks)
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Bureau of Meteorology: http://www.bom.gov.au/ (for weather information and heatwave warnings)
- Sports Medicene Austrail Extreme Heat Policy https://sma.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SMA-Extreme-Heat-Policy-2021-Final.pdf
Conclusion: Prioritising Worker Safety in a Hot Climate
Hyperthermia is a very real workplace hazard in Australia.
By understanding the risks, implementing effective control measures, and providing adequate training and first aid, employers can fulfill their legal obligations and create a safer working environment for all.
Remember, when it comes to hyperthermia, prevention is key, and immediate rapid cooling can save lives.