Delivering in hot weather presents some hazards to couriers. Knowing the early warning signs is essential in minimising the risk of heat related illnesses or injury.
What are the risks to my health in summer?
Hot and humid days present multiple risks to couriers, especially those who deliver using motorbikes, scooters and e-bikes. These are:
UV exposure – this can cause severe sunburn and over long periods of time can contribute to skin cancers.
Dehydration – This can cause a variety of risks to your health. One of the first symptoms of dehydration may be a headache. In severe cases, dehydration can lead to organ failure.
Heat stress – This can cause extreme tiredness, muscle soreness and nausea and vomiting.
Heat stroke – Requires immediate medical attention and can be fatal in severe cases.
Early signs of heat stress and heat stroke
Heat stress and heat stroke are serious conditions that can affect you during the warmer months. Some warning signs to look out for are:
Heavy sweating
Paleness
Headache
Tiredness
Muscle cramps
Weakness
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
What should I do if I think I have heat stress?
You should always seek medical attention is if you think you may be suffering from heat stress, though there are some things you can do immediately to reduce the effects:
Move to a shady area or indoors
Remove excess clothing
Hydrate yourself – dehydration is a major contributor to heat stress
Get yourself cool – this could be a cold shower, getting into an air conditioned room, etc.
What should I do if I think I have heat stroke?
Heat stroke is considered a medical emergency. If you have heat stroke, you should seek immediate medical care. In Austria, the emergency services number is 144.
How do I control the risks of heat related injury or illness?
It is important to mitigate the risks that couriers face during periods of extreme heat. This can be achieved by:
Wearing long sleeved and collared shirts – this reduces the risk of UV exposure
Applying sunscreen every 2-4 hours – you should use SPF 30+at least
Staying hydrated – make sure you drink plenty of water whilst you are delivering
Taking regular breaks – getting a break from the direct heat of the sun is crucial to avoiding heat related illnesses
Being aware of medications you are taking – some medications exacerbate heat related illnesses
