LTB 228/23 – Sun Safety and Severe Weather Risk Assessment Process

No. 228/2023

8 September 2023

Our Ref: E4/23

TO: All Branches

Dear Colleagues,

Sun Safety and Severe Weather Risk Assessment Process:

Temperatures in September have now risen to the highest for the year and are forecast to remain high as the current heatwave continues. These temperatures, intense sunlight and exposure to high UV ray levels bring dangers. All CWU Reps and members need to be alert and aware of those health risks.

Sunburn – is painful and hurts you in more ways than one. The danger goes far beyond any short-term pain, redness and discomfort, because after the sunburn fades, lasting damage remains. Sunburn accelerates skin aging and is a leading cause in the majority of skin cancer cases. A sun tan is not a sign of good health – it’s a sign of serious skin damage!

Heatstroke – can quickly damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles.

Skin cancer – is the most common form of cancer in the UK, and rates continue to rise with 100,000 new cases diagnosed each year and 2,500 deaths. The main cause of skin cancer is exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Dehydration – can cause organ damage and failure, seizures, fainting, heatstroke and shock.

IMPORTANT ADVICE TO ALL MEMBERS WORKING OUTSIDE:

Even this late in the year, it is important to:

Cover Up – wear loose clothing, minimise skin exposure, avoid sunburn.
Protect Your Head – wear a hat with a broad rim, wear sunglasses.
Take Regular Breaks – preferably in the shade.
Use Sunscreen/Sunblock – with a minimum SPF 30 and reapply frequently.
Be Skin Safe – report any mole changes or any other skin concerns to your GP.
Stay Hydrated – drink plenty of fluids and plan refills.

RMG Managers should complete a Severe Weather Risk Assessment when temperatures reach the high 20s to record the controls that have been implemented.

The assessment includes advice and support for managing the operation in the hot weather. For additional guidance on working safe in the sun see SHE Huddle FY23 041 Sun Safety (attached).

PiCs/Managers must complete a Severe Weather Risk Assessment daily in hot, sunny weather and must record the controls that have been implemented to protect the workforce.

Attachments: