Workers advised to take precautions with extreme heat

Many tradies are heading back to work this week and if you're working on a job outside, then it's advised that you take a few extra precautions this week, with extreme heats sweeping the country.

The Bureau of Meteorology predicts daytime temperatures will reach the mid 40s in parts of Australia, including NSW.

"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," said WorkCover general manager of Workplace Health and Safety Division John Watson.

Mr Watson said that people should try to re-schedule work to cooler times of the day (early mornings/late afternoons) and if this wasn't possible, to ensure they have access to plain drinking water, shaded rest areas and have regular breaks.

"Heat illness can be fatal. Common symptoms of dangerous heat illness may include nausea, dizziness, general weakness and collapse," said Mr Watson.

"If you or your workers are working in a hot environment and have any of these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical assistance."

WorkSafe Victoria has provided some advice on how you can prevent heat illness from working in hot weather.