Taking Care To Beat The Heat

By Matthew Trewin

GrainFlow sites in south east Australia will manage through extreme heat this week to continue to serve growers.

Sites are adjusting their opening hours to avoid the hottest times of the day – expected to reach the mid to high 40s.

Split shifts will be implemented at GrainFlow sites opening early in the morning before closing during the hottest part of the day. After reopening in the early evening, the sites will stay open until late in the evening.

Growers can stay up to date with the opening hours of sites by SMS messages which get sent out from the respective sites.

Cargill’s Grain Operations manager, Chris Liston, said the adjustment in opening hours aimed to support growers with their storage needs whilst managing the health and safety issues associated with extreme heat.

“When temperatures get into the 40s, there are risks for both employees and our customers. Dehydration and heat stroke are serious conditions and we need to ensure we avoid them at all cost.

“Grain storage and handling sites involve operating heavy equipment and people should avoid this type of work in extreme weather conditions. Growers will also be careful not to harvest in dangerous conditions due to fire risk and so our adjusted hours reflects this as well.

Growers and drivers are urged to take extra care during this time. Hats, sunscreen and water are on site for growers and drivers who may need them.