Back to Policies & Procedures
POL-014cautionv1.0February 2026
Sun Safety & Heat Stress Policy
POL-014 | Sun Safety & Heat Stress Policy | Version 1.0 | February 2026
High ambient temperature (Queensland summers regularly exceed 35°C)
High humidity
Physical exertion (manual handling, forklift operation)
Working inside shipping containers (temperatures can exceed 60°C)
Inadequate rest breaks or hydration
Dark or non-breathable clothing
Wear SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen
Wear a broad-brimmed hat (minimum 7.5cm brim)
Wear UV-protective clothing (UPF 50+)
Wear UV-protective sunglasses
Seek shade during peak UV hours (10am–2pm)
Related Documents: SWMS-001, Toolbox Talk — Heat Stress | Legislation: WHS Act 2011 (Qld) s.19; Code of Practice: Managing the Work Environment and Facilities
*(Queensland-specific — critical for outdoor and warehouse work)*
Purpose
To protect workers from the health risks of sun exposure and heat stress, which are significant hazards in Queensland's climate.
Scope
All workers at [YOUR BUSINESS NAME], particularly those working outdoors in the yard, unloading containers, or in areas without adequate cooling.
Heat Stress Risk Factors
Signs of Heat Stress
| Condition | Symptoms | Action |
| Heat cramps | Muscle cramps, heavy sweating | Rest, cool area, water |
| Heat exhaustion | Heavy sweating, weakness, cold/pale/clammy skin, fast/weak pulse, nausea | Move to cool area, loosen clothing, apply cool wet cloths, sip water, seek medical attention |
| Heat stroke | High body temp (>40°C), hot/red/dry skin, rapid/strong pulse, confusion | Call 000 immediately — life-threatening |
Controls
- Hydration: Drink at least 250ml of water every 20 minutes during hot conditions. Cold water must be available at all times.
- Rest breaks: Increase frequency of rest breaks in hot weather. Use shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- Scheduling: Schedule heavy physical work for cooler parts of the day (early morning).
- Clothing: Wear lightweight, light-coloured, breathable work clothing. Long sleeves and a hat for outdoor work.
- Sun protection: Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen before outdoor work. Reapply every 2 hours.
- Acclimatisation: New workers and those returning from leave must be gradually acclimatised to heat over 7–14 days.
- Container work: Check temperature inside containers before entry. Limit time inside. Ensure adequate ventilation.
- Buddy system: Workers must monitor each other for signs of heat stress.
UV Protection (Outdoor Work)
Queensland has some of the highest UV radiation levels in the world. For outdoor work: