As the majority of us are thinking about taking a well-deserved break for the Christmas holidays, spare a thought for the thousands of Australian workers who will work all the way through Christmas and into the New Year. This includes hospitality staff, nurses, doctors, ambulance officers, police, fire fighters, waste collection, life guards, defence force and other essential services personnel. These people give up their holidays and time with their loved ones so that the rest of us can have fun and relax. In fact with Christmas in Australia coinciding with summer, it is the busiest period for many businesses and workers.
For many years we worked through Christmas ourselves, Jayme as an emergency ward nurse and both of us as surf lifesavers, commercial vessel crew and a in range of hospitality roles. This experience has taught us that there are a number of issues that Christmas workers face and some ways to combat them
Regardless if you are a Christmas worker yourself or if you are enjoying your holidays, a few simple things can make a huge difference this silly season!
Rest –many workers will do multiple shifts for days on end during the holiday period, even working two or more jobs while the work is available. Squeeze in a few parties as well and tired quickly becomes exhausted. Take rest when you can get it, eat well and keep hydrated in order to avoid fatigue related injuries, encourage others to do the same.
Be sun smart – Australian summers are hot. Working in outdoors, in a kitchen or non- air conditioned space can amplify this. Wear a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and cover up. Stay in the shade where possible, take regular breaks in a cool place and drink plenty of water.
Moderate your alcohol –Working? Go easy on the alcohol in your time off. Showing up to work hung-over and dehydrated can be dangerous and might just cost you your job. On Holidays? Enjoy yourself but don’t go too far – spare a thought for the workers and emergency service personnel who might have to deal with your drunken self. Dealing with drunken partygoers is something that most Christmas workers would rather avoid.
Drive responsibly – Car accidents have a way of increasing over holiday periods and the reach of a single accident can affect hundreds or thousands of lives. Think endless traffic queues, injuries & deaths, traumatised loved ones, emergency service and hospital personnel, witnesses, co-workers and more. All because one driver got impatient or wasn’t paying attention. Please don’t drive when drunk, tired or upset.
Keep an eye on your mates. If your friend, family member or co-worker is showing signs of stress, fatigue, heat related illness, depression or is preparing to do something stupid that might cause themselves or others an injury, step up and speak out. Encourage them to rest, talk, drink, eat or seek whatever help necessary to look after them and those around them.
We hope you and yours have a safe holiday season this year and we invite you to add any tips and comments about working safe over Christmas below
Jayme & Lindsay
Excite Safety Training
Image: sydneymedia.com.au
