Temperatures across the UK are pretty warm for July this year, with an amber extreme heat warning now being issued by the Met Office for the upcoming weekend.

It is acknowledged that moderate and extreme ambient temperatures increase the risk of occupational accidents and it is an employer’s duty to risk assess thermal comfort is captured under the general duties to risk assess work activities in the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. Employers in their thermal comfort risk assessment should evaluate the environment, the employees’ competencies and work activities.

Suitable control measures could include:

• permit to work at a slower rate

• rotation of employees on a more frequent basis

• scheduling for physically demanding work to be completed at cooler times of the day

• providing more frequent breaks and drinking water

• shading in the working environment

• flexible working arrangements.

Survey results show that where employers provide their workers with UV protection cream, almost double the number of  people used it. In addition to providing UV protection cream, employers are also being encouraged to raise awareness of the “Five S’s of Sun Safety”:

1. SLIP on protective clothing – Encourage workers to keep covered up. Clothing can be one of the most effective barriers.
2. SLOP on SPF 30+ broad spectrum UVA sunscreen – 20 minutes before initial exposure and re-apply every two hours or more frequently if sweating heavily.
3. SLAP on a hat and neck protection – Where possible choose a hat with ear and neck protection.
4. SLIDE on quality sunglasses – Slide on a pair of high-quality wrap-around sunglasses to protect the eyes.
5. SHADE from the sun whenever possible – Encourage workers to take breaks or work in a shaded area wherever possible, especially from 11am-3pm.

For more information regarding the Five S’s and sun safety, visit – www.skcin.org

To read the full SHP Online article, visit –  SHP Online