Peak temperatures, when working outdoors, have a major impact on daily work. When it is extremely hot, you cannot be too careful. The protocol for the coming heatwaves must be taken seriously.
World Day for Safety and Health at Work took place last Friday, sponsored, as always, by the International Labour Organization (ILO). Promoting a safe and healthy working environment is one of the needs highlighted this year, in order to uphold the ILO's own fundamental principles and rights at work.
Safety, especially during this hot spring we are experiencing – also marked by persistent drought – has to do with working in high temperatures. Tow-truck services and assistance to travellers on motorways, dual carriageways and roads are being carried out in a context where the heat takes its toll, and roadside assistance operators must take precautions accordingly.
Workers who spend several hours outdoors and in hot environments, while also making great physical efforts, must take special care to protect themselves. If these people suffer from certain conditions, they will need to be even more careful, especially if they have cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lung conditions or kidney failure.
What would the recommendations be for people in our sector?
- Always carry enough cool water, and drink it even if you are not thirsty (a small glass every 15-20 minutes, depending on how much you sweat, for example).
- Wear light, loose, breathable clothing (such as cotton), and cover your head if you are in the sun for a while.
- Take frequent, short breaks in cool, shaded places.
- Eat frequent, light and healthy meals.
- Avoid caffeine (watch out for the rebound effect), and of course alcoholic drinks.
- Know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses so you can stop immediately and take preventive measures.
- Bear in mind sudden changes in temperature when getting out of the vehicle; adjust the air conditioning beforehand.