Radiation & Extreme Temperature

Radio frequency (RF) 

Radio frequency (RF) radiation is emitted from many different sources and can be particularly hazardous. This type of radiation emanates from sources such as mobile transmitters and antennas found on rooftops or towers. It can cause internal heat generation, leading to serious damage that may go unnoticed until it is too late. 

It is crucial to be aware of the presence of RF and take necessary precautions to ensure safety but identifying risk and being aware of the hazards is not always the first thing on workers minds without the right training.  

Extreme Temperatures – Hot and cold 

Extreme temperatures pose a significant threat to electrotechnology workers across Australia, cold weather can cause frostbite, fatigue and drowsiness, where high temperatures may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can be potentially deadly. UV rays from the sun can also lead to skin cancer, premature aging, and heat-related illnesses.  

To mitigate these risks, electrotechnology workers should remain informed of local weather conditions and take appropriate measures, such as wearing protective clothing, taking regular breaks in cooler areas, and scheduling strenuous tasks for cooler times of the day.  

It sounds simple but being diligent and taking proper precautions is not the priority of most electrotechnology workers. Ensuring workers minimise their risk of injury or illness from radiation and extreme temperatures needs constant reminders. 

Toolbox Talk templates

• Electromagnetic Field (EMF)
• Extreme Cold
• Radio Frequency
• Smoke and Bushfire 

• Ultraviolet Radiation (UV) Exposure

• Working in Extreme (Heat) Temperature

• Working in Roof Spaces

Safety Inspection List

• Radiation and extreme temperature checklist

Policies

• Work Health and Safety Policy

Forms

• Fire protection register & Incident investigation Report 
• Confined Spaces Entry Permit & Hot Works Permit 
• UV Radiation Control Worksheet & Incident Accident Report Form 
• Site Specific Induction Checklist 

Operational Procedures 

• Incident Reporting & Site Induction 
• Company Induction & Confined Spaces 

SWMS

• Confined Spaces & Confined Spaces 
• Extreme Temperature & Extreme Temperature  
• Flammable Atmosphere & Flammable Atmosphere 
• Restricted Spaces (roof spaces and subfloors) 
• Restricted Spaces (roof spaces and subfloors) 
• Hot Works & Hot Works 
• Radio Frequency (RF) Transmitter SWMS 
• Radio Frequency (RF) Transmitter SWMS 

(available through the online store or a NECA safety management subscription):

Informational video