Sun Protection and Heat Protection
This weekend, temperatures in the shade are expected to exceed 40C in many places. This can quickly become life-threatening, so please take care of yourselves and your coworkers. If workplace safety measures are lacking, organize union action if necessary!
Overheating, dehydration, heatstroke
- In hot weather: as soon as you start feeling unwell, seek shade; encourage each other to do the same; stick together in front of supervisors; take a half-hour break in the shade at least every two hours; ensure at least 3–4 drinking breaks per hour are possible
- Always bring water with you to the field; drink at least 3–6 liters in extreme heat; keep an eye on your salt balance
- Call for heavy and particularly hot work to be scheduled for the morning hours, as well as especially dangerous tasks, such as those involving machinery and ladders
- Refuse to work alone in exposed areas so that someone is always available to help you
- Request that work areas be shaded, such as around sprayers and tractors
- Practical tip: Bring a bucket of water in your outer clothing and place damp cloths in it; keep the water in the shade to prevent it from heating up!
- Be careful of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially when temperatures exceed 33C° and in humid conditions; watch for the following symptoms: headaches, dizziness, thirst, nausea and vomiting, weakness, irritability, and loss of coordination → Move the affected person to the shade, elevate their upper body, and cool them down with wet cloths (no ice!). If they experience severe symptoms such as nausea, confusion, or hallucinations, call emergency medical services!
Skin Cancer: One of the Greatest Dangers
Skin cancer is one of the most common work-related causes of death in agriculture and horticulture.
- A tan only protects against sunburn, not against skin cancer
- Some colleagues are already developing the disease in their mid-30s
- Apply sunscreen, at least SPF 50, every 2 hours
- Don’t forget: eyelids, ears (back!), and the backs of your hands
- Work in long sleeves; wear a hat or hood
- Practical tips: Long-sleeved linen shirts, with a hood if necessary; specialized UV-protective clothing is even safer
- Practical tip: Get a skin cancer screening every year at the end of the season; early diagnosis offers a good chance of recovery
Of course, we’ll provide union assistance to the best of our ability