Now that summer has arrived, so too have the hazards of working in heat and increased risk of fire. Members who live or work in country areas that have significant bush, forest, long grass, or coastal scrub need to plan for the remaining fire season.

When there is moderate risk of fire, members are advised to check regularly for warnings and incidents on: www.emergency.vic.gov.au; http://www.facebook.com/cfavic; https://twitter.com/CFA_Updates; ABC local radio, Sky News and / or The Victorian Bushfire Information Line (1800 240 667).

Members should heed the advice from the emergency service professionals and postpone or reorganise their work if necessary, or if there is any doubt at all.

Ordinarily, builders have to monitor conditions at their workplace, which includes ensuring that any ‘hot work’ which produces a spark, such as grinding, welding, soldering or gas cutting is controlled appropriately. In certain districts during fire restrictions, these activities are prohibited or require a permit from the relevant fire authority. More information is available to industry regarding permits via the Metropolitan Fire Brigade.

Hot weather not only increases the risk of fire but can also create health and safety issues for persons working in the heat. This has been highlighted recently by the serious incident which occurred on a housing construction site in Adelaide.

Heat illness occurs when the body cannot sufficiently cool itself. Factors that contribute to heat illness include temperature, humidity, amount of air movement, radiant temperature of surrounds and physical activity (metabolic work load).

WorkSafe Victoria has a practical guidance note, containing more information on working in the heat which is a useful source of information.

If any risk of heat illness is identified, control measures need to be put in place. Workers considered at risk due to factors such as pre-existing conditions should be assessed by a doctor.

For more information contact the Master Builders OHS Unit on (03) 9411 4555.