A Guide for Working in Hot Weather

We are used to the changeable weather of the UK; we can go from a scorching summer day to freezing winter temperatures in a blink of an eye. Such weather can unavoidably prompt questions regarding working temperatures and the employers' responsibilities. Be it a cold winter season or a hot summer, it is the responsibility of the employer to provide its employees with a safe and conducive work environment.

We often question what temperature is perfect for the employee? Well, the answer often varies with the nature of the work and the organisation. And to make the situation even more confusing, there is no legal standard for what we should consider as maximum temperature. However, the consensus is that people work best within the temperature of 16⁰C and 24⁰C. The TUC advocates for a maximum temperature of 27⁰C and 30⁰C for people in demanding work environments.

Ventilation and fans should be provided for employees when the temperatures rise. Likewise, the law mandates they provide heating for when there is a drop in temperature.

Possible Cause of Dehydration and Heatstroke While Working in the Hot Weather

Every year in the UK, 100000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer. The major cause of skin cancer is UV rays. Exposing workers to UV rays can result in sunburn which is not only painful but can also prevent them from working. Similarly, driving becomes an exhausting activity when a person has to drive for long hours in hot weather. They will be dehydrated and unfocused. For those who work labour intensive jobs they need to be careful during hot weather. They tend to sweat more, which will lead to dehydration. If left untreated, they could suffer a heatstroke as well as lose consciousness.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

• Sweaty and pale skin.
• A loss of appetite and a feeling of being sick.
• Fever
• Cramps in the leg, arm or stomach
• Heatstroke if not treated in time.

Symptoms of a Heatstroke

• Severe headaches and dizziness.
• Skin that is hot, dry and flushed.
• Heavy pulse
• A feeling of tiredness and restlessness.
• Unconsciousness

Treating Heatstroke and Exhaustion

• Try to rehydrate the patient
• Make them lie down and remove any extra layers of clothing
• Take them to a shady or cool place
• Call 999 if it is an emergency and the patient is unconscious

Steps Employers Can Take to Prevent Heatstroke and Exhaustion

Employers have to bear the responsibility for the working conditions of their employees. They must ensure that the workplace is safe and conductive regardless of the weather. Below are a few tips to ensuring workers don’t suffer heatstroke and exhaustion.

• Allow for flexible working hours that would allow employees to take breaks.
• There should be provision for suitable summer wears for employees to help them cope with the heat.
• Adequate ventilation and cooling fans should be made available.
• Employers can employ rotation among staff member to ensure that no one suffers exhaustion.
• Ensure that there are shady and cool areas for employees to rest during breaks, especially when they are working outdoors.
• If they are working outdoors, helmets to help block out the sun should be given to the employees.
• Ensure safety practices around worksites and train employees on ways to respond in the event of an emergency.
• Make sure to provide hydration for employees in the form of a water dispenser or water bottles.
• Workers that would be working outdoors should have access to sun cream.
• Always monitor the temperature of the workplace and carry out a routine risk assessment.
• Employees should receive training on how to protect themselves from the heat.