With a heat wave currently affecting the state, Transport for NSW is reminding people to stay safe on public transport and carry a water bottle.
“Customers travelling on the network should be aware of how dehydration can affect their health, and carry a bottle of water,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said in a statement.
The temperature in Sydney is expected to exceed 40 degrees today (January 8), meaning that conditions could be dangerous for those who are dehydrated, have underlying medical conditions or work outside.
It is important to be vigilant about looking after yourself, and also to take care to stay indoors in air conditioned environments as much as possible.
Extra precaution should be taken when travelling, as the risk of public transport accidents and incidents involving cars and pedestrians may be increased.
The Transport for NSW spokesperson suggests travelling to work early in the morning and coming home late in the evening to avoid “extreme conditions”.
The spokesperson also said that there would be staff available on the city’s network to help people who need assistance.
“CityRail staff will be on hand at busy stations throughout the afternoon handing out bottles of water to customers in need, and providing assistance where required,” the spokesperson said.
“Misting fans will also be operating at Town Hall, Wynyard, Martin Place and Central stations to help lower temperatures.”
Unions NSW also issued a press release today urging workers to be extra careful, saying that the heat does pose a very real threat to workplace health and safety.
In particular, the union urged employers to take responsibility for ensuring their staff are adequately protected.
“Employers need to provide workers with relief from the heat today if their workplace gets too hot,” Unions NSW acting secretary Chris Christodoulou said.
“Rehydration and regular access to shaded and less hot areas are also critical.”
Meanwhile WorkCover NSW general manager of health and safety John Watson also issued a warning to both employers and workers.
“Employers and workers, especially those working in heat-related conditions, need to remain vigilant to the risks of working in high temperatures given it is expected to be warmer than average across south eastern Australia for the next few days,” Mr Watson said.
If you are involved in an accident during the heat wave due to someone else’s negligence, then you may be eligible for compensation.
There are lawyers in Sydney who can help you make a claim.
