Suva calls on employers to take heatwave precautions
Published: Monday, Jul 29th 2024, 09:10
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The Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund (Suva) is calling on employers to take protective measures against the expected heatwave this week. This applies in particular to heavy outdoor work. The public institution intends to monitor compliance with the measures, as it announced on Monday.
A heatwave with temperatures of over 30 degrees is expected over the next few days, reminds Suva. In order to avoid health and physical impairments caused by the sun, protective measures for staff are essential, especially for heavy outdoor work.
The risk of accidents at work increases in hot weather. Compared to other summer days, statistics show that there are seven percent more accidents when the mercury exceeds 30 degrees.
Suva points out that high temperatures can lead to tiredness and lack of concentration. A forgotten shovel on the ground, for example, could lead to a fall.
According to Suva, people who work outdoors, such as gardeners, yard workers or road workers, are particularly at risk. It is therefore recommended that strenuous outdoor work should be carried out in the morning. Suva advises drinking a glass of water every 20 minutes and working in the shade if possible.
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