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As temperatures continue to rise across the UK, organisations should take proactive steps to help protect employees from the risks associated with hot weather and heatwaves.
Whether employees are working outdoors, travelling, or based at home or in the office, excessive heat can impact wellbeing, concentration and productivity. Keep reading for practical guidance on how to help your workforce stay safe, hydrated and cool during periods of extreme heat.
Staying safe in the heat
When working outdoors or travelling during hot weather, it’s important to take precautions to reduce the risk of dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Here are some key measures employees should follow:
- Wear sunscreen – Use sunscreen with at least SPF30 and UVA and UVB protection. Apply it 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply regularly throughout the day.
- Cover up – Wear loose-fitting clothing, long sleeves where appropriate, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect the face, neck and ears, especially between 11am and 3pm when temperatures and UV exposure are highest.
- Wear sunglasses – Choose sunglasses that meet the British Standard Mark 12312-1:2013 E.
- Stay hydrated – Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Take breaks in shaded or cool areas – Encourage employees to avoid prolonged periods in direct sunlight where possible.
During lunch breaks or outdoor rest periods, employees should also:
- Reapply sunscreen before going back outside.
- Sit in shaded or cooler areas.
- Continue drinking water regularly.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.
Keeping cool during a heatwave
Heatwaves can increase the risk of fatigue, dehydration, overheating and reduced concentration. Employers should support staff by helping to create cooler, safer working environments.
How to keep cool at home or in the office
- Open windows, where safe to do so, to improve airflow and ventilation.
- Keep blinds or curtains closed on sun-facing windows to reduce indoor temperatures.
- Drink water regularly throughout the day and limit excessive caffeine or alcohol intake.
- Avoid intense physical activity during peak temperatures.
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing to help regulate body temperature.
- Take regular breaks away from desks or workstations to cool down and move around.
- Use cool towels, fans or cold water on wrists and neck to help reduce body temperature.
- Where possible, move to cooler areas of the building during the hottest parts of the day.
Supporting outdoor and lone workers
Employees working outdoors or alone may be at greater risk during hot weather. Organisations should ensure there are clear processes in place to support their safety and wellbeing.
- Regularly check in with lone workers throughout the day.
- Encourage employees to report symptoms of heat exhaustion early, including dizziness, headaches, nausea or excessive sweating.
- Ensure outdoor workers have access to drinking water, shaded rest areas and suitable PPE or protective clothing.
- Consider adjusting working hours to avoid the hottest periods of the day where possible.
Travelling during hot weather
Employees travelling for work should also take extra precautions during a heatwave.
If travelling by car:
- Park in shaded areas where possible and safe to do so.
- Use air conditioning or open windows to improve airflow.
- Always carry drinking water in the vehicle.
- Avoid leaving equipment, devices or personal items in direct sunlight for long periods.
- Allow extra travel time, as heatwaves can increase delays on public transport and road networks.
Recognising the signs of heat exhaustion
It’s important that employees and managers know how to recognise the early signs of heat-related illness. Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or confusion
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
- Tiredness or weakness
If symptoms worsen or someone becomes unresponsive, confused or stops sweating, this could be a sign of heatstroke and urgent medical attention should be sought immediately.
We can help
If you’d like further advice on how to help keep your employees safe, comfortable and productive during periods of hot weather, please email [email protected].
