Heatwaves as a work hazard.

admin • February 4, 2025

When there is a heatwave, it can introduce temperatures which are a new hazard not normally experienced in a workplace. As always, the employer must eliminate or minimise risks as far as reasonably practicable. That means that when conditions change, it’s time to do a risk assessment and put new controls in place.


There is no single ‘stop work’ temperature. Various factors need to be taken into account which include humidity, air flow and the type of work being performed.


Heatwave conditions create a work-related risk in the form of heat stress and fatigue. But there are various ways to control the risk. Things to consider may include:

  • working in the cooler part of the day
  • moving work to a different location
  • limiting tasks which require higher physical effort during the hotter period
  • changing work expectations and allowing workers to self-pace their work
  • ensuring access to cool water - and rehydration electrolytes if required
  • providing shade
  • air conditioning or fans if possible
  • ensuring workers are not working in isolation
  • ensuring supervision is in place
  • taking into account more vulnerable workers - for example those who may be young, pregnant, suffer an illness, etc
  • training workers to ensure they understand the risk and how to recognise symptoms
  • ensure first aid and medical assistance is available


Remember that the risk posed by heat is not just limited to outdoor workers. Indoor workers can be exposed to unsafe working conditions too - including high temperatures, thermal radiation and humidity.


As with all hazards - when considering what control to put in place, the usual hierarchy of control should be used – with elimination being considered first. If this can’t be done, then consider substitution, followed by isolation/ engineering controls, then administrative controls and finally PPE as the last option.

As always, the effectiveness of the controls should be monitored and reviewed.


Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs)s can be proactive in this area by consulting with the employer and attempting to resolve the risk. If there is an immediate risk to health and safety, then they can direct a cease work.


HSRs play an important role in ensuring a safe workplace – and this includes during heatwave conditions.


Welding Fumes

By admin • June 15, 2026
Welding fumes are hazardous, and employers must control the risk of harm. Various types of welding are used in the workplace, with varying levels of welding fume production. The amount and type of fumes produced during welding will vary based on various factors including: the metals being welded, the welding process used, the composition of the welding rod/wire, the shielding gases used and any contaminants or coating on the metal, etc. There are a number of health effects which may occur due to exposure to welding fumes. These include both short-term and long-term affects Short term: eye irritation, respiratory irritation, metal fume fever (zinc oxide). Long term: siderosis (iron accumulation in the body), lung and kidney cancer, nervous system disorders, asthma, pneumonia. The likelihood of developing damaging health effects from welding will depend on the type of welding being used (and therefore the type of fumes produced), the duration and frequency of exposure, the worker’s proximity to the fumes, the ventilation of the welding area, and any controls which were utilised during the exposure. Welding fumes are a hazardous substance and must be controlled according to the hierarchy of controls. Controls may include: Eliminating the need for welding if possible, for example by using different fastening methods or prefabricated components. Substituting the welding method, for example by using a method which generates less fumes, or using automation methods. Engineering controls including mechanical ventilation such as on-torch extraction or local exhaust ventilation. PPE should be provided by the workplace and includes the use of air fed ventilators. The use of respirators such as Powered Air Purifying Respirators can be used but only in addition to a higher-order control, or if higher-order controls are not possible. Other types of respirators are available but less effective. Several different controls may need to be used and as with any controls, training must be provided on their implementation. Atmospheric monitoring may also be required to monitor exposure levels in the workplace and health monitoring must also be carried out in accordance with the OHS Regulations 2017 Part 4.1 - Hazardous Substances.  Consultation with the workforce, including any elected health and safety representatives, must take place in accordance with requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004. For more information on welding fumes, take a look at the following links: https://youtu.be/0tvrOw18Vr0?si=oK_v3vkbGebCzuMf Controlling exposure to welding fumes | WorkSafe Victoria Compliance code: Hazardous substances | WorkSafe Victoria - Welding fumes | Safe Work Australia

Why Veterinary Teams Need Psychological Safety Training

By admin • June 9, 2026
The veterinary profession can be one of the most rewarding careers, but it’s also one of the most emotionally and mentally demanding. Behind the compassion, skill, and dedication lies a reality many outside the industry don’t see: long hours, emotionally charged cases, financial pressures, and the emotional toll of euthanasia and client grief. With Victoria’s new psychological health regulations now in effect (as of December 2025), workplaces must manage psychological risks with the same seriousness as physical hazards. For veterinary practices, this is not just a compliance requirement, it’s a lifeline for the wellbeing of their teams. The Hidden Pressures in Veterinary Work Veterinary professionals may face a multitude of psychosocial hazards, including: Exposure to traumatic events Aggression and violence High job demands and time pressure Low job control Remote or isolated work Poor workplace relationships and minimal support Moral and ethical dilemmas are also a feature of the work as well as the exposure to grief and loss. Thinking of Veterinarians as first responders can help to understand the types of psychosocial hazards which they face. These factors can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, anxiety, depression, and tragically, higher-than-average suicide rates in the profession. Suicide rates are up to four times higher than the general population, making the industry’s psychological hazards the most common fatal risk in the veterinary workplace. Why BeSafe Victoria’s Training Matters BeSafe Victoria’s psychosocial safety training is a new course designed to help participant’s: Understand the Psychological Health Compliance Code Identify psychosocial hazards Follow a risk management process for psychosocial hazards Implement practical controls Ensure consultation is compliant and effective At BeSafe Victoria, we deliver training designed by WorkSafe for Health and Safety Representatives. However, it is also an excellent course for leaders and teams to ensure the psychological safety of their workplace. In turn, this helps us all to work towards improved psychological outcomes for Veterinarians and the industry more broadly. The Benefits for Veterinary Practices Investing in psychological safety training can: Ensure compliance with the OHS legislation Improve staff retention and team morale Improve the psychological health of veterinary teams Enhance team consultation, collaboration and trust Reduce rates of psychological harm Contact us to find out more about our courses and how we can help you. This may include providing advice on designated work groups, electing HSRs, or delivering training. Please reach out on 0467 002 060 or info@besafevictoria.com.au