Extremely hot or cold environments are places where temperatures are so high or low that they can cause heat-related or cold-related illness or injury to a person. Air temperature as well as other factors can contribute to creating an extreme temperature environment. Heat-related and cold-related illnesses and injuries can be fatal.

Good practice guidelines

This good practice guide provides practical advice on how to identify, control, and monitor the health and safety risks associated with working in extremely hot and extremely cold environments. It is for any PCBU (a person conducting a business or undertaking) who manages a workplace, or whose workers carry out work activities in environments that can be extremely hot or extremely cold.

It may also be useful for health and safety professionals who are providing extreme temperature risk assessments or monitoring for PCBUs.

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Working safely in extreme temperatures (PDF 2.4 MB)

Fact sheets

We have fact sheets specifically tailored towards both workers and businesses. These summarise the advice given in the good practice guidelines. 

Advice for workers

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Working in extreme cold - a guide for workers (PDF 65 KB)
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Working in extreme heat - a guide for workers (PDF 63 KB)

Advice for businesses

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Working in extreme cold - a guide for businesses (PDF 61 KB)
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Working in extreme heat - a guide for businesses (PDF 63 KB)