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Western Australia's summer heat poses a significant threat to miners' health and safety with working in outside and underground environments. Heat illness, ranging from mild heat stress to life-threatening heat stroke, can strike quickly and unexpectedly. This serves as a critical reminder to be aware of the risks and take proactive steps to protect yourselves and your workmates.

Understanding heat illness

• Heat stress: This early warning sign includes excessive sweating, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and nausea. Ignoring these signals can lead to more severe conditions.
• Heat exhaustion: If heat stress goes unaddressed, it can progress to heat exhaustion. Symptoms include profuse sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat, and weakness. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
• Heat stroke: This is the most severe form of heat illness and is a medical emergency. It's characterized by a core body temperature exceeding 40°C (104°F), confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, and potentially death. Immediate medical attention is crucial.

Preventing heat illness

• Hydration: Drink plenty of cool water (not icy) regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Aim for 1 litre per hour under moderate conditions and more in heavy work or extreme heat. Hydrolytes are also available.
• Protective clothing: Consider hats with wide brims and sunscreen for exposed skin.
• Rest and shade: Take frequent breaks in cool, shaded areas to allow your body to cool down.
• Acclimatization: If you are new to the industry or recently come back from a trip overseas in a cold climate, acclimatisation may be required for your role.
• Communication: Inform your supervisor of any warning signs of heat illness in yourself or colleagues.

Responding to heat stroke

If you suspect heat stroke in yourself or someone else:

• Call the medic immediately.
• Move the person to a cool, shaded area.
• Remove unnecessary clothing and cool the person's body with cool water (not ice) on their skin and clothing. Fan them if possible.
• Do not give them anything to drink or eat.
• Stay with the person and monitor their condition until help arrives.

Remember: Heat illness is preventable. By staying informed, taking precautions, and seeking immediate help when needed, we can all stay safe and healthy throughout the summer months.

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