19th July 2013
As the mercury continues to soar across the UK, concerns have been raised about the extreme temperatures CWU members working outdoors have to endure. The union's campaign about the importance of safe working in extreme weather has been re-launched to make sure members are aware of the risks associated with overexposure to heat and sunshine.
CWU health and safety officer Dave Joyce cautions on the dangers, saying: "Working outdoors in hot summer months poses special hazards for outdoor workers who must be protected against heat stress, sun exposure, dehydration and other hazards.
"The issue of working in extreme weather conditions has been repeatedly raised with employers, particularly Royal Mail, and a motion passed at this year's annual conference committed the union to seek provision of sunscreen for all staff who work outdoors. Royal Mail need to make sure our delivery workforce know the potential hazards and how to manage them.
"We urge all our members to make the necessary provisions to work safely by covering up exposed areas of skin where possible, where a factor of at least 15, but preferably 30, sunscreen and make sure they have enough water on them when out on their rounds. I would also suggest taking short breaks in shaded areas if out during 11am - 15:00pm - the times when UV rays are most intense.
"If you are unsure about any of the advice provided speak to your health and safely rep before you head outdoors," he added.
For more information on the CWU's guidance on being sun smart and skin safe download the leaflet and poster.
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http://www.cwu.org/assets/_files/docume ... poster.pdf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;