Many employers fail to act on heat-related workplace injuries because they lack awareness of the issue, a study by the University of Adelaide shows.

Almost 70% of the 180 occupational health and safety specialists interviewed say this is the main barrier to implementing measures in the workplace.

Another barrier is lack of training in heat injury prevention, cited by 56%. About 52% say lack of management commitment is a problem.

The researchers say rising temperatures due to climate change mean heat-related injuries will become more prevalent. With average temperatures expected to rise 1-5 degrees by 2070, the university warns workplaces are ill-prepared.

Researcher Peng Bi says the university has found a correlation between numbers of workers’ compensation claims and hot days.

“We looked at the… claims for those who commonly work outdoors, including construction workers, farmers, emergency services officers and utility employees.

“What we found was that once the mercury approached 37.7 [degrees], there was a considerable increase in injuries recorded.”

Professor Bi says such illnesses and injuries including falls, poisoning due to chemical exposure, occupational burns and heat stroke are preventable.

About 52% of survey participants are very concerned about extreme heat and accidents; less than 10% have no concerns.

When asked if extreme heat poses a challenge to workplace temperature management practices, 53% agree and less than 10% disagree.

“There are numerous measures that can be put in place to protect workers from heat-related injuries, including adjusting work hours, taking more breaks, providing good hydration and offering more flexible work arrangements,” Professor Bi said.

“We know many companies do have heat-exposure policies, but this research demonstrates a need for a better nationwide policy.”