Two paramedics unions have been dragged before the Industrial Relations Commission for recommending members shed part of their hot and heavy uniforms during the recent heatwaves. The Australian Paramedics Association (APA) and the Health Services Union NSW (HSU) were hauled into court this week by NSW Ambulance for advising paramedics not to wear long-sleeved over-shirts during the recent weeks of soaring temperatures across NSW. APA NSW president Steve Pearce said he had received complaints about the heavy uniform from across the state, particularly the west and north-west, where temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees. Some paramedics became soaked in sweat “from collar to waist” in the polyester blend, forcing them to change their saturated shirt several times a shift, while others suffered rashes and skin irritations, Mr Pearce said.
