Managing Heat Stress in NT Schools

AEU NT Fact Sheet: Managing Heat Stress in NT Schools

With the rising temperatures and the upcoming “Build Up,” managing heat stress in our schools is crucial. This fact sheet provides essential information to help educators recognise and mitigate heat stress, including what to do when air conditioning fails.

What is Heat Stress?

Heat stress occurs when the body cannot cool itself effectively, leading to serious health risks like heat exhaustion or heatstroke. In extreme conditions, educators and students are vulnerable, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

Heat Discomfort vs. Heat Illness

Heat discomfort refers to the discomfort many experience in hot environments, which is not considered a health risk but can still affect productivity. It’s common in office environments or during light physical work. Discomfort can be managed by increasing air movement, using air conditioning, staying hydrated, and wearing light clothing.

Optimal conditions for comfort:

• Air temperature: 23-26°C
• Humidity: 30-60%

Heat illness arises when the body can’t regulate its temperature, leading to:

• Heat stroke (life-threatening)
• Heat exhaustion (fatigue, dizziness)
• Heat cramps, rashes (prickly heat)
• Worsening of pre-existing conditions

Managing Heat Discomfort and Heat Illness

• Increase air movement: Use fans or open windows to improve ventilation.
• Use air conditioning: Report any issues with cooling systems immediately.
• Stay hydrated: Ensure access to cool water and encourage regular hydration.
• Adapt activities: Reschedule strenuous activities during cooler parts of the day.
• Monitor vulnerable individuals: Be especially mindful of those with pre-existing health conditions.

What to Do When Air Conditioning Fails

If your classroom or work area exceeds 26°C or high humidity levels, you should:

• Report air conditioning failures immediately to school leadership.
• Use fans or seek shaded areas during breaks.
• Relocate classes to cooler spaces if necessary.
• Take regular hydration breaks.

For more guidance, see WorkSafe NT’s Bulletin on Working in Heat.

Your Rights and Union Support

As an educator, you have the right to a safe working environment under the NT Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act. This includes proper heat management measures, especially during extreme weather conditions.

Your Rights Include:

• Safe working conditions: Your workplace must provide functional cooling systems and adequate ventilation.
• Risk assessments: Schools are required to assess temperature and humidity and mitigate risks promptly.
• Reasonable adjustments: If temperatures are unsafe, your school should make adjustments such as relocating classes, reducing outdoor activities, and providing breaks.

Union Support:

The AEU NT is here to ensure these rights are upheld. We are advocating for:

• Improved working conditions: We continue to push for robust cooling systems and clearer protocols on managing heat stress.
• Support with reporting issues: If your school fails to address concerns, report the issue to your Sub-Branch Rep. The AEU NT will escalate the issue if necessary, including to the NT WorkSafe Authority.
• Health and safety representation: If your concerns about heat stress are not resolved, we can assist with formal complaints and ensure your case is heard.

If Conditions Are Unsafe:

1. Report immediately: Notify your Sub-Branch Rep and school leadership.
2. Record the situation: Keep track of temperature and humidity levels and any actions taken.
3. Contact the union: If your concerns are not addressed, the AEU NT will step in to ensure your working conditions are safe.

For further information, see Safe Work Australia’s Guide on Managing Risks in Heat.