Loss adjusters have been warned of the “significant risks” many of them will face over the next few months when visiting bushfire sites.

Australasian Institute of Chartered Loss Adjusters (AICLA) President Michael Collins says forecasts of a long and hot summer mean adjusters can expect to be called to work in the wake of more than the usual number of bushfires.

“Loss adjusting can be very hazardous, and adjusters are often exposed to significant risks,” he says in an AICLA bulletin. “There is an expectation that loss adjusters will respond almost immediately after the primary threat has passed.

“We all know that every site visit following a catastrophe is urgent in the truest form of the word, and that the work-related pressure becomes intense.

“The days are long, the emotions are high and the client demands for reports and updates are continuous, so it doesn’t take long before fatigue sets in.”

Mr Collins says while the primary bushfire threat will have passed before adjusters are permitted to enter the area, the risk of injury and loss from secondary physical hazards will remain high.

“For example, asbestos in damaged buildings, arsenic from burnt fence posts, loose debris, injured and scared animals, snakes, barbed wire and solar panels still producing power need to be fully managed and assessed.”

He says the associated hazards, particularly long-distance driving while fatigued, must also be factored in by adjusters.

“Your safety should be absolutely paramount.”