‘Danger Money Is Never Justified’: Heatwave Leads To Malta’s Safety Authority Issuing New Measures
As temperatures are hitting high thirties and the “feels like” temperature will be 40 this week, Malta’s dreaded hot summer is back. While some of us have the luxury of working in air-conditioned offices, there are those who suffer serious safety and health dangers in the burning heat.
The Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) published necessary measures to prevent problems in the workplace as a heatwave blows over Malta, encouraging employers and employees alike to stick to these measures.
One of the measures emphasised that ‘danger money’, a sum of money that a worker is given to work in a hazardous environment, is never justified.
“You cannot pay workers a sum of money to work in the sun instead of taking the necessary measures.”
People who work in the sun or in an environment where the temperature is high can be at risk of heat stress which can easily lead to work-related illnesses or incidents. Heat stress can cause heatstroke, heat exhaustion, cramps and skin rashes.
High temperatures can lead to an increased risk of incidents due to sweat-soaked hands, foggy safety goggles and people who may feel dizzy because of the heat. Burning of the skin can be caused by accidental contact with hot objects or steam.
UV radiation is considered a workplace hazard for those workers who work outside as they are more exposed to these rays.
These workers include farmers, builders and people working in construction, gardeners, postal workers, services workers working outdoors, outdoor sellers and other people who spend long periods of time outside.
Recommended necessary measures for employers include carrying out a risk assessment and involving workers in doing so, as well administrative and technical measures. This includes providing protective equipment, materials and products.
Employers must always ensure there is adequate ventilation and reduce the temperature in particular areas with fans (spot cooling).
Where possible, they should increase the number of breaks.
They must also make sure employees have access to safe drinking water, adequate fresh air and sun and heat protection. Where possible they should plan outdoor work in the morning or work with tents, sunscreens or an umbrella.
If you work outside, make sure to wear clothing that is suited for the heat, a hat and sunglasses. Stick to applying sunscreen every so often to protect yourself from burns and skin cancer and never stay in the sun too long.
Besides that, make sure to stay hydrated and drink enough, eat light meals before work and take enough rest. Also, check your skin for suspicious spots and get them checked out if you’re concerned.
“Avoiding a hazard is the best preventive measure that can be taken”, the OHSA stated.
What measures are you taking to cope with Malta’s heat while you’re at work?
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