Ensuring EmployeeHealth and SafetyDuring Hot Weather
In England, there are on average 2,000 heat-related deaths every year. So, how can you ensure your employees’ health is cared for during hot weather?
The HSE outlines your responsibilities as an employer and suggests ways to manage the temperature in your workplace to maintain thermal comfort. Thermal comfort describes a person’s state of mind in terms of whether they feel too hot or cold. How you manage the effects of temperature depends on whether your staff work indoors or outdoors and the normal operating temperature of the environment.
Indoor Workplaces Should Provide:
A reasonable working temperature in workrooms – usually at least 16°C, or 13°C for strenuous work (unless other laws require different temperatures).
Local heating or cooling, such as using fans, radiators, and opening windows where a comfortable temperature cannot be maintained throughout the room.
Thermal clothing and rest facilities where necessary (e.g., for 'hot work' or cold stores).
Heating systems which do not emit dangerous or offensive fumes.
Sufficient space in workrooms to ensure comfort.
How to Help Staff Stay Cool
You can help ensure thermal comfort in warm conditions by:
Providing fans (desk, pedestal, or ceiling-mounted).
Ensuring windows can be opened.
Shading employees from direct sunlight with blinds or reflective film on windows.
Siting workstations away from direct sunlight or other heat-radiating objects (e.g., machinery).
Relaxing dress codes, while ensuring PPE is still provided and used if required.
Allowing sufficient breaks for employees to hydrate and cool down.
Providing additional facilities, e.g., cold water dispensers.
Introducing flexible working patterns, job rotation, or workstation rotation to limit exposure.
Placing insulating materials around hot pipes or plant.
Providing air-cooling or air-conditioning where possible.
To read more about taking care of your health at home during heatwaves, see the Met Office's tips.
