Preparing for Seasonal Safety Challenges: Spring into Summer in New Zealand

As New Zealand transitions from spring into the warmer months of summer, businesses must be proactive in addressing seasonal health and safety challenges. This period brings specific risks that, if not managed effectively, can impact employee well-being and productivity. 

Here’s some tips on how your organisation can stay ahead of these seasonal safety issues:

1. Managing Heat Stress and Sun Safety

With rising temperatures, the risk of heat stress becomes a significant concern, especially for outdoor workers. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke, which can be serious if not addressed promptly.

Tips:

• Hydration Stations: Ensure easy access to water throughout the worksite and encourage regular hydration breaks.
• Sun Protection: Provide sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing. Encourage the use of shaded areas during breaks.
• Flexible Work Hours: Consider adjusting work hours to cooler parts of the day or implementing more frequent rest breaks during peak heat periods.

2. Allergies and Air Quality

Spring brings an increase in pollen and allergens, which can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma or cause discomfort for allergy sufferers. Poor air quality can also be a concern, especially during dry spells when dust levels rise.

Tips:

• Indoor Air Quality: Regularly check and maintain HVAC systems to reduce indoor allergens. Use air purifiers if necessary.
• Outdoor Exposure: For those working outside, monitor pollen levels and provide PPE like masks if conditions worsen.

3. Increased Risk of Fatigue

Longer daylight hours can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to employee fatigue. Coupled with the rush to complete outdoor projects before the holiday season, this can increase the risk of accidents.

Tips:

• Promote Rest: Encourage employees to take sufficient breaks and prioritize sleep hygiene.
• Monitor Workload: Avoid excessive overtime and provide support to manage workloads effectively, reducing burnout risks.

4. Seasonal Equipment Maintenance

The change in season is an excellent time to inspect and maintain equipment, especially items that may have been idle during the colder months.

Tips:

• Check Air Conditioning Units: Ensure cooling systems are in good working order to maintain a comfortable environment.
• Review Outdoor Equipment: Inspect outdoor tools and machinery for any weather-related wear and tear. Regular maintenance can prevent malfunctions that could lead to injuries.

5. Preparing for Increased Outdoor Activities and Events

With warmer weather comes the increase in outdoor activities, including company events, team-building exercises, or Christmas and other holiday celebrations. While these are great for morale, they also introduce new risks.

Tips:

• Risk Assessments: Conduct thorough risk assessments for any outdoor events. Consider factors like sun exposure, hydration needs, and emergency plans for weather changes.
• Safety Briefings: Provide clear guidance on safety practices during outdoor activities, such as first aid procedures, emergency contacts, and the importance of staying hydrated and protected from the sun.

Leveraging Engage for Seasonal Safety

Engage’s health and safety software can help your business stay on top of seasonal challenges. Use the platform to:

• Monitor Incident Trends: Use our report builder to track heat-related incidents or other seasonal issues, allowing for proactive adjustments.
• Use Reminders: Check your asset maintenance reminders for equipment maintenance or use the calendar function to set reminders for hydration and rest breaks.
• Centralize Resources: Use the “procedure” section (accessed via web and mobile) to provide easy access to guidelines on sun safety, heat stress management, and other seasonal health risks.

By preparing for the unique challenges of spring and summer, your organization can protect its workforce, maintain productivity, and foster a culture of safety. 

Stay vigilant, stay proactive, and make the most of the upcoming warmer season with Engage!

Find out how we can help your business today. Contact Us.