The London-Middlesex Health Unit has issued an extreme heat alert beginning today. The forecast high is 34 degrees Celsius, and when combined with high humidity it may create humidex values that will make the temperature feel more like the low 40s.
Precautions are urged for those members of the Western community working outside and supervisors must be aware of Westerns “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° 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 a Heat Stress Awareness Guide developed by the Occupational Health and Safety Council of Ontario.
For more information or assistance, please contact Tony Hammoud, Facilities Safety Coordinator at extension 88730.