WorkSafe calls on employers to safeguard employees from severe heat conditions

WorkSafe Victoria is advising employers to take proactive measures and ensure the safety of their workers as heatwaves and threatening fire conditions impact the state.

The Bureau of Meteorology has released a warning for a severe to extreme heatwave affecting all forecast regions, with anticipated maximum temperatures ranging from the low to mid-40s throughout much of the state until Friday.

WorkSafe Acting Chief Health and Safety Officer Adam Watson said workplaces need to be prepared to modify work setups to protect workers from significant health and safety hazards.

"Employers have a legal duty to monitor workplace conditions and manage any risk to health and safety, including those created by extreme weather or natural events," Mr Watson said.

"This should include preparing a strategy tailored to each workplace and ensuring workers are educated on how to recognise fire risks and heat-related illnesses – both in themselves and others."

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