Working Safely in the Heat
As temperatures climb and the sun’s intensity rises, heat becomes more than just a comfort issue on a work site, it can become a safety hazard. For employers, supervisors and workers alike, being proactive about managing heat risks isn’t optional. At Badger, we’re committed to helping you stay safe, comfortable and productive when the mercury rises.
Why heat matters
Working in hot conditions can lead to serious health problems: heat exhaustion, heat stroke, cramps, fatigue, dizziness and fainting. WorkSafe’s guidance makes it clear: A worker who becomes ill while working in the heat can experience heat stroke, fainting, heat exhaustion, cramps, rashes and fatigue.
Even though there is no specific legal maximum temperature in most jurisdictions, good practice means identifying and controlling heat-hazards.
Australia-wide data shows that “heat, electricity and other environmental factors” accounted for 1.3 % of serious workers’ compensation claims in 2023-24 (i.e., about 1,900 claims).*
While that percentage may look small, the consequences of a heat-related incident can be severe for the individual, for the team, and for the business.
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Several elements combine to increase heat risk on a work site:
High ambient temperature + high humidity (sweating becomes less effective)
Physical exertion or heavy workloads
Enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces (roof-spaces, sheds, inside machinery) where heat builds up
Direct sun exposure (outdoor work)
Wearing heavy or non-breathable workwear and PPE
Lack of rest breaks, shade, cool drinkable water
Workers who may be less able to tolerate heat (older age, health-conditions)
Key controls and practical tips
Here’s how you and your workers can mitigate the risks:
1. Plan the work
Schedule the hottest tasks during cooler parts of the day (morning or evening)
Reduce workload and heavy exertion during heat-peaks.
Use mechanical aids and increase crew numbers to avoid over-exertion.
Monitor both outdoor and indoor areas (e.g., areas with poor ventilation can be just as dangerous).
2. Provide environmental controls
Ensure shade, fans or air-conditioning where possible.
Use shade cloth outdoors, or relocate tasks to cooler areas.
Block direct sunlight on structures and ventilate hot zones.
3. Stay hydrated and rest
Provide access to cool drinking water and encourage workers to drink at least every 15 minutes, even if they’re not thirsty.
Build in extra rest breaks in cool or shady areas.
Educate workers to recognise signs of heat illness
4. Clothing and PPE
Wear light, breathable clothing while maintaining required protection.
Wear Hats, UV-protection items, and sun-protection for outdoor work.
Remove or lighten excess layers of workwear if possible, when temperatures climb.
5. Monitor and respond
Supervisors and workers should watch for signs of overheating and intervene early.
If someone shows symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, stop work, move them to a cool area, provide water and seek medical help if required.
Workers should look after each other, buddy checks help.
Signs of heat illness to watch for
Knowing the differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke can save lives:
Heat exhaustion: dizziness, headache, sweaty skin, cramps, weakness, nausea/vomiting, fast weak pulse.
Heat stroke: red, hot, dry skin, intense thirst, confusion, convulsions, high body temperature, fainting.