Workplace Heat Safety: WHS Responsibilities, Prevention and First Aid

As the temperature rises across South Australia, workplace heat safety becomes more than just comfort — it’s a real WHS issue.

Whether your team works outdoors, in warehouses, kitchens, or classrooms, employers have a WHS responsibility to manage and control the risks of working in heat.

At Safe Hands SA, we believe first aid isn’t just a course — it’s a skill for life.We help workplaces stay safer, stronger, and more capable through ongoing learning, refreshers, and practical first aid resources.

☀️ Why Workplace Heat Safety Matters

Heat stress affects concentration and decision-making, increasing the risk of injuries, incidents, and fatigue.

According to Safe Work Australia, every business must identify and manage the hazards linked to workplace heat safety.

Common early warning signs include:

• Heavy sweating, thirst or fatigue

• Dizziness, headache or nausea

• Muscle cramps or weakness

• Pale, clammy or flushed skin

• Confusion, irritability or fainting

  
  

Left untreated, these symptoms can quickly progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency.

💧 Workplace Heat Safety – Practical Prevention Strategies

For all workers:

• Drink small, frequent sips of water.

• Take breaks in shade or cool areas.

• Wear breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.

• Use sunscreen and reapply every two hours.

• Work in pairs and check on each other during hot conditions.

  
  

For managers and supervisors:

• Provide shaded rest areas and cool drinking water.

• Schedule physically demanding work for cooler times.

• Rotate tasks to reduce exposure.

• Ensure PPE is suitable for heat conditions.

• Discuss heat management during toolbox/team talks and refreshers.

  
  

These simple controls meet your WHS duties under the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA) and form the foundation of good workplace heat safety.

🩹 First Aid for Heat Stress and Heat-Related Illness

When someone shows signs of heat stress, act quickly — don’t wait for it to worsen.

The Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) and Safe Work Australia recommend:

1️⃣ Move the person to a cool, shaded place.

2️⃣ Loosen clothing and help them rest.

3️⃣ Give small sips of cool water (if conscious).

4️⃣ Cool their body with wet cloths or gentle fanning.

5️⃣ Call 000 immediately if they become confused, stop sweating, or lose consciousness.

(More details: Safe Work Australia – First Aid for Heat-Related Illness)

If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR and use an AED following ARC DRSABCD steps.

🧰 Workplace Heat Safety – Keeping Your Team Ready

Good preparation prevents panic.

Make sure your workplace is ready before the next heatwave:

• Review first aid kits and restock cold packs.

• Ensure AEDs are visible, working and in-date.

• Display the Heat & Outdoor Work Tips poster from our Resources page.

• Discuss seasonal safety at your next toolbox/team talk.

  
  

If you want a team that’s prepared, confident and up to date, don’t wait for the next incident to start the conversation.

Explore our Toolbox/Team Talk Resources or get in touch to plan practical safety refreshers for your workplace.

📍 Go to our Free First Aid Resources page

For more free first aid resources, posters, guides and apps to support your workplace safety, visit our👉 Free First Aid Resources Page

Safe Hands SA – First Aid for Life

Helping workplaces stay safer, stronger, and more capable through ongoing learning, refreshers, and practical first aid resources.

📧 contact@safehandssa.com | 📞 0433 234 918 | 🌐 www.safehandssa.com