Don't stress this summer

Volume 48, No. 19, October 19, 2006

WATCH OUT: Heat stress is influenced by a combination of environmental, personal and work factors, such as inadequate hydration, excessive clothing or physical exertion in hot weather during operational duty. Photo by CPL Bernard Pearson

ENVIRONMENTAL heat hazards pose a potentially significant threat to personnel. With the onset of warmer weather, we must be more cognisant of the hazards posed by exposure to environmental heat.

That is why the Directorate of Defence Aviation and Air Force Safety has now promulgated a comprehensive, easy-to-read policy on the management of heat stress to ensure all personnel from commanders down involved in at-risk activities are aware of their responsibilities, the hazards associated with environmental heat, and the various risk management strategies and hazard control methodologies.

The onset of heat-related disorders can be sudden and quickly lead to serious damage of internal organs or, in extreme cases, death. However, heat-related disorders are preventable if robust policy and procedures to minimise risks associated with environmental heat are applied, coupled with awareness of the dangers and appropriate training.

Air Force is required to engage in activities and operations that inherently involve various risks, some of which can be compounded by exposure to environmental heat hazards. To prepare adequately for these activities, training and awareness must be appropriate and thorough.

The policy incorporates the principles for heat stress management, relevant definitions, types of heat-related disorders, responsibilities, hazard identification, and risk assessment and prevention strategies.

It also sets out the range of environmental, personal and work factors that can impact on an individual’s susceptibility to heat stress. It focuses on the need to continuously monitor these factors, to ensure there are no unacceptable risks during activities.

The policy will be inserted into AAP 6730.001 – RAAFSAFE Manual as an amendment and applies to Air Force personnel only.

Hot facts:
Heat-related disorders are preventable.
Members are required to monitor themselves and their workmates and to take remedial action when they observe symptoms of heat-related disorders.
Members are required to disclose factors that could increase the risk of heat-related disorders and take reasonable precautions to safeguard themselves and those around them.

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