AVOID WORKING DURING THE HOTTEST PART OF THE DAY, TAKE PROTECTIVE MEASURES

BANJA LUKA, JULY 31 /SRNA/ - Representatives of the Republika Srpska Ministry of Labor, War Veterans' and Disabled Persons' Protection told reporters in Banja Luka today that international standards on occupational safety in hot weather should be applied during periods of high temperatures, with one of the measures being to avoid working during the hottest part of the day.

Igor Ratković, head of the Occupational Safety Department at the ministry, specified that neighbouring countries and EU member states are already applying the international ISO 7243 standard, which sets out these measures. "This standard sets out work procedures and protective measures for such conditions, as well as recommendations for employers and workers on prevention, which will help minimise the risk of exposure to high temperatures in the workplace," Ratković told reporters. He said that work should be properly organised during periods of high temperatures, with measures including the redistribution of working hours and avoiding work during the hottest part of the day. "Work should be organised in shifts, with workers rotated accordingly. Employers are also required to provide a cooled room for rest and recovery, as well as adequate quantities of suitable beverages during working hours. And, of course, workers should wear lighter protective equipment and footwear," Ratković said. He stressed that the ministry is urging employers to comply with these measures to protect the health of workers in Republika Srpska.