Precautions are urged for members of the Western community working outside as temperatures continue to soar this week, and in light of the increases Environment Canada has issued a humidex advisory for July 18.
Temperatures are predicted to climb between 32 C and 35 C, which when combined with high humidity, may create humidex values that will make it feel more like 42 C.
Supervisors must be aware of Western’s Working in Hot Weather or Hot Workplace Environments Policy, which recommends escalating precautions when the humidex reaches 35 C and higher, or air temperatures reach 32 C and higher.
Workers are encouraged to dress in light clothing, apply sunscreen, drink more water, take more frequent breaks and work in the shade if possible. They are also encouraged to work with a buddy and monitor each other for signs and symptoms of heat stress, as individual response to heat can vary from person to person.
All those who work outside at Western are encouraged to make themselves familiar with the Western policy and to review the Heat Stress Awareness Guide developed by the Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario.