The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety has issued a reminder on guarding against the effects of extreme temperatures on WA mine sites and remote areas.
DMIRS director Andrew Chaplyn said the extremes of Western Australia’s climate means that heat stress is a significant risk that needs to be managed across the State’s mining and exploration operations.
“Supervisors and workers need to understand the risks and symptoms of heat stress. Workers should report any signs of heat stress to a supervisor,” Mr. Chaplyn said.
“Heat stroke can cause permanent damage to the brain and other vital organs, and can even result in death.
“It is critical that urgent medical treatment is sought for anyone suspected of suffering heat-related illness.”
Some of the key risk factors for workers are:
- Lack of acclimatisation
- Low level of physical fitness
- Medical conditions (diabetes, cardiovascular disease, gastroenteritis)
- Some medications
- Drug and alcohol use
- Dehydration
- Age (especially workers older than 60).
“Added to this danger is the fact that many mining operations are in remote areas in Western Australia where medical assistance is not easily available,” Mr. Chaplyn said.
“This is especially the case for exploration work and travel between mine sites.”
