Health comes first
It’s cooler now, of course, but apparently tropical weather is set to return to Poland in August. Summer is, of course, pleasant, but high temperatures can be dangerous to the body. Pavers and other tradespeople know what it’s like to work in the heat better than most – after all, the season is in full swing in summer. Of course, the work has to be done, but with care. Health and safety should always come first.
That is why health and safety regulations clearly set out the rules for working in temperatures exceeding 25°C. Failure to comply can result in the employer being fined, and not a small one at that: up to 30,000 PLN! These rights and obligations apply to both employers and employees. Regardless of which role you play, you should be aware of them.
Beware of heatstroke
Regulations are one thing, but above all, you need to know the risks associated with high temperatures at work. Heat can cause heatstroke, also known as heat exhaustion or sunstroke. This is a sudden rise in body temperature above 40 degrees Celsius. It happens quite often, so it is worth knowing how to recognise it. And to react at the first signs, such as muscle cramps. Later, dizziness and headaches, blurred vision, nausea and a general feeling of being unwell may occur. Over time, the symptoms worsen and may also cause vomiting, diarrhoea, delirium, convulsions or loss of consciousness, and in extreme cases, a coma! Few people realise this, but heatstroke can even be fatal.
So what should you do if you notice these symptoms?
First and foremost, you must move the affected person to a cooler, shaded place. It is a good idea to apply cooling compresses to the head and neck (e.g. using a damp towel). But it’s best to avoid ice to prevent thermal shock. It’s also a good idea to give the person something cool to drink. But these must not be stimulants: coffee, tea or alcohol (yes, beer is out of the question too). Mild symptoms can be treated at home, but if they worsen, you must call an ambulance.
Heat can also disrupt the functioning of the circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems. Not to mention the less pressing issue of reduced productivity. High temperatures have a negative impact on employee productivity. Studies have shown that during the summer, productivity drops by around 20%.
Hold yourself and others
to account
Right then, what does working in the heat look like from a legal perspective? People working outdoors are entitled to drinks when the temperature exceeds 25 degrees Celsius. The employer is obliged to provide these to employees free of charge throughout the day. They may also introduce additional rest breaks, but that is entirely their decision – the regulations do not cover this.
In addition, the Labour Code distinguishes ‘work in particularly hazardous conditions’. These include, amongst others, construction, demolition and renovation work. Paving certainly falls within this category. If such work is carried out in hot weather, the employer must take the employee’s physical and mental fitness into account and assess whether it can be performed safely.
But these obligations do not apply only to employers. Professionals who carry out work in particularly hazardous conditions, during periods of high air temperature, must also assess their own physical and mental condition. And make responsible decisions. And if an employee considers that the working conditions do not comply with health and safety regulations and pose a threat to life or health, they may refrain from performing the work.
Finally, remember that responsibility lies with everyone. It is worth ensuring safe and compliant working conditions during hot weather. This way, you will look after your health, your work will be more effective, and you may even set a good example for others. After all, you are a professional!
