When Does Hot Become Too Hot in the Workplace?

A question many ask, and rightly so. Working in heat can be uncomfortable. After waiting for the sun for months, now that it’s here, can we rewind to a month ago when it was warm but comfortable? Reflecting on the summer of 2023, we had one of the hottest weeks in the UK for years, leading to confusion about temperature management. Can we work? Can’t we? Is it the law? To simplify things, we’ve created a blog with five bite-sized chunks to help you or your workforce manage hot to extreme temperatures.

5 Bite-Sized Chunks

Chunk #1: Common Sense

Arghh, that word again. We’re not saying common sense alone is enough, but if your staff look like they’re melting with sweat and making squidge noises with every step, it’s too late for action. If this is your situation, stop and rethink your work patterns immediately. Also, grab some ice cream. We get warm weather warnings in the UK; even if they’re sometimes wrong, they’re the best guide we have. If the forecast predicts extreme heat, reconsider your risk assessment.

Chunk #2: The Law

The law is clear. Let’s talk facts:

Fact #1: We must manage the workplace.
Fact #2: We must risk assess the workplace.
Fact #3: Legal limits for weather exist only for cold or arduous conditions.
Fact #4: There is still plenty of advice from the HSE.
Fact #5: Refer to Fact #1. Manage the temperature; if it’s going to be hot or extreme, take action. Keep reading for options available to you.

Chunk #3: Heat Index

Since the law mainly focuses on cold conditions, use additional factors to manage extreme heat. In addition to weather forecasts, you can use the Heat Index to assess expected heat. Check out the Heat Index Calculator | Felt Temperature At High Humidity.

Chunk #4: Planning

Sign up to the alert system that warns you directly of heat alerts – Heat-health Alert service – Met Office
Read this: Hot weather and health: guidance and advice – GOV.UK
Read this: Heat stress – Temperature – HSE
Risk assess your workplace.
Consider the following controls (non-exhaustive):
- Change work patterns
- Work from home
- Create shaded areas
- Keep blinds down on summer nights
- Use fans, air conditioning, and other cooling methods
- Ensure plentiful water availability
- Monitor the workplace

Chunk #5: Common Sense Again

Yes, common sense is back. Sometimes, the best advice is the simplest. Keep an eye on your team and the environment. If people are visibly uncomfortable or if the temperature feels unbearable, take immediate action. Adjust workloads, provide breaks, and make sure hydration is a top priority. Remember, working in extreme heat isn’t just about comfort; it’s about health and safety. Regularly check in with your team and adjust your strategies as needed. If in doubt, err on the side of caution. After all, it’s better to take proactive steps than to deal with the consequences of heat stress.

Additionally, ensure that everyone is aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Training and awareness can make a significant difference in preventing serious issues. Keep communication open and make sure everyone knows how to report any concerns. Finally, don’t forget to review your heat management practices regularly and update them as necessary. Hot weather might be temporary, but being prepared is always a good idea.