How to keep your staff safe in this week’s heatwave

This week, employees will be experiencing a heatwave while they work as temperatures are set to soar to 33 degrees, with heat predicted to rise to 43 degrees on the weekend.

Due to this, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released a level three heat-health alert for the East of England, South East and London regions.

Meanwhile, a level two heat-health alert has been issued for the South West, East Midlands, West Midlands, North West and Yorkshire and Humber regions.

Both of these alerts have been put in place until 9am on Friday (15 July).

With this in mind, workers and employers may be wondering what methods could be put in place to protect staff during the scorching temperatures.

However, a legal expert has told Reward Strategy that “the UK does not have a maximum working temperature enshrined in law”.

Charlotte Dowson, senior solicitor at Bolt Burdon Kemp, shared that instead the “Health and Safety Executive (HSE) asks employees to take a common-sense approach in determining a ‘reasonable temperature’ for their workplace”.

“Working in environments that are too hot carries the risk that an employee could develop heat stress. It is important that employers carry out a thermal risk assessment and identify ways to reduce the risks associated with their employees working in hot weather,” she explained.

“In offices this could include providing air conditioning, desk fans or standing units. For outdoor work protective clothing, sunglasses, bottled water and sunscreen could be supplied. Regular rest breaks, changes to shift patterns, reduced hours, and working practices can also be implemented.”

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has also waded in, pointing out that workers who are based outdoors are in more danger due to the hot weather.

The body added that for staff working indoors, employers have a duty to ensure the temperature is ‘reasonable’.

General secretary for the TUC, Frances O’Grady, continued: “We all love it when the sun comes out. But working in sweltering conditions in a baking shop or stifling office can be unbearable and dangerous.

“Indoor workplaces should be kept cool, with relaxed dress codes and flexible working to make use of the coolest hours of the day.

“And bosses must make sure outdoor workers are protected with regular breaks, lots of fluids, plenty of sunscreen and the right protective clothing.”

Ways to help workers

The TUC shared a list of ways employers could help their employees in the heat:

• Offer sun protection
• Allow flexible working
• Keep workplace buildings cool, by using fans and opening windows
• Relax dress codes
• Keep staff comfortable with extra breaks and cold drinks
• Talk and listen to staff and their union
• Offer sensible hours and shaded areas for outdoor workers

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