It is the responsibility of Schools to assess and take appropriate action when there is potential for thermal discomfort. Problems should be anticipated and appropriate action taken before injury or illness occurs. The following guidelines may assist in this process. The supervisor should investigate the situation considering:

• staff perceptions of the situation
• staff levels of acclimatisation, and the possible physical and psychological effects of continued exposure
• staff adherence to accepted work practices
• the requirement for work to continue at that particular time
• the estimated duration of the thermal extreme.

Staff are to be encouraged to inform their supervisor of any thermal comfort issues and to adhere to guidelines/instructions given on personal protection from thermal health risks.

The most comfortable temperatures in offices and laboratories is generally within the range of 18ºC and 30ºC. This varies with the time of year and clothing worn.

The following measures can be implemented to control indoor air temperature within comfortable levels:

• provide fans or air coolers to increase air movement and evaporation.
• provide window blinds/curtains or screens to reduce radiant heat.
• insulate equipment giving off radiant heat.
• re-organise duties or perform duties in a different environment, (such as tasks that require more physical effort should be done in the cooler part of the day or in cooler areas).
• vary hours worked (such as arrive early/leave early).
• job rotate or take frequent rest breaks.
• encourage employees to wear appropriate clothes (such as loose, light clothing).
• encourage employees to drink cool water frequently even if the employee is not thirsty.

If conditions are considered extreme so that productivity levels are low and distress is high due to thermal discomfort, paid rest breaks or cessation of duties may be considered by the Head of School. Staff must be informed of the exact duration of any paid breaks/leave and the provision under which it is to be granted (for example, staff may be placed on standby or given alternate duties in a cooler place).

Outdoor workers are not only exposed to potential heat stress and thermal discomfort, but there is the additional risk associated with long term exposure to solar radiation. There is a strong correlation between exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and a variety of skin disorders, including skin cancer and photokeratitis/cataracts of the eyes.

The following measures should be implemented to protect outdoor workers:

• schedule heavy work or work in direct sunlight to cooler periods of the day or other days.
• introduce rest breaks or give alternate duties in a cooler place.
• provide a cooler area for workers to retire to for rest breaks.
• provide cooled water and encourage people to drink small amounts often
• provide a canopy over work areas where possible.
• wear protective clothing, such as broad-brimmed hat, lightweight opaque clothing (trousers and long sleeves, preferably natural fibres).
• provide and encourage the regular application of sunscreens with maximum SPF protection.
• encourage the wearing of sunglasses that comply with the Australian Standard, preferably with side shields.

Heat stress can be indicated by increased sweating, tiredness, inattention and muscle cramps. If heat stress or frost bite occurs, seek first aid or medical advice immediately. In the case of heat stress have the person rest in the coolest place available and drink cool but not cold water. Contact the School First Aid Officer or if on campus, the Medical Centre on 6488 2118.

An incident or hazard report form should be submitted to the Safety and health office as soon as possible.