Introduction
The UK is currently experiencing another period of exceptionally hot weather, with temperatures reaching levels that can significantly affect health, safety and wellbeing in the workplace. While sunny conditions may be welcomed by many, heat can present serious risks for employees working both indoors and outdoors. Businesses involved in outdoor events, construction, maintenance, hospitality, agriculture, warehousing and other physically demanding activities should take particular care during hot weather. Employers must ensure suitable welfare arrangements are in place and review existing control measures to protect workers from heat-related illness and discomfort.
Legal Duties of Employers
Employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of employees. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to provide a suitable working environment, including adequate ventilation, reasonable workplace temperatures, drinking water, washing facilities and rest areas. Welfare arrangements should include sanitary and washing facilities, drinking water and suitable rest facilities. Outdoor workers must also be protected from adverse weather conditions.
Unlike minimum workplace temperatures, there is currently no legal maximum workplace temperature in the UK. However, HSE guidance makes it clear that employers must assess risks arising from extreme heat and take appropriate action where employees may be affected. A workplace temperature should be reasonable and suitable for the work being carried out, taking account of factors such as physical exertion, humidity, clothing and the nature of the environment.
Key Risks Associated with Extreme Heat
High temperatures can affect concentration, decision-making and physical performance, increasing the likelihood of mistakes and accidents. Workers exposed to excessive heat may experience dehydration, heat exhaustion or, in severe cases, heatstroke, which can become a medical emergency.
Indoor environments can become particularly challenging where there is poor ventilation, direct sunlight, heat-generating equipment or large numbers of people. This can be especially relevant for warehouses, kitchens, factories, offices and temporary event structures such as marquees.
Outdoor workers face additional hazards from direct sunlight, high temperatures and physically demanding tasks. Event staff, maintenance workers, landscapers, delivery teams, construction workers and security personnel may spend prolonged periods in the sun, increasing the risk of dehydration, sunburn and heat-related illness.
Workers with underlying health conditions, pregnant employees, older workers and those required to wear heavy personal protective equipment may be particularly vulnerable.
Essential Control Measures
Employers should carry out a suitable risk assessment to identify heat-related hazards and implement appropriate controls.
Manage the Working Environment
Indoor areas should be well ventilated and protected from excessive heat build-up wherever possible. This may include the use of natural ventilation, air conditioning, fans, blinds or shading. Work areas should remain clean, organised and free from unnecessary sources of heat. Temperature, ventilation and lighting should be considered as part of regular workplace assessments.
For outdoor work and events, employers should provide shelter from direct sunlight where reasonably practicable. Temporary shade structures, gazebos, covered rest areas or air-conditioned welfare units may be appropriate depending on the nature of the work.
Provide Adequate Drinking Water
Access to clean, wholesome drinking water is a legal requirement. Drinking water should be readily available, conveniently located and replenished throughout the day. Additional water supplies may be necessary during hot weather, particularly at outdoor events and remote work locations. Workers should be encouraged to drink regularly, even before they feel thirsty.
Ensure Suitable Washing Facilities
Adequate washing facilities should be available and maintained in a clean and hygienic condition. Workers should have access to hot and cold (or warm) running water, soap and suitable drying facilities. Where work is particularly dirty or involves contamination risks, showers may also be necessary.
Provide Rest Areas and Welfare Facilities
Suitable rest areas are essential during periods of hot weather. Employers should provide facilities where workers can cool down, take breaks and eat meals comfortably. Rest facilities should be clean, adequately furnished and protected from extreme temperatures. Welfare arrangements should be reviewed for employees working at temporary sites, outdoor events and remote locations to ensure they have access to the same standard of facilities as those based at fixed workplaces.
Adapt Working Practices
Consider scheduling physically demanding activities for cooler times of the day, increasing the frequency of rest breaks and rotating staff where possible. Employers may also need to relax dress code requirements where appropriate, provided safety is not compromised.
Workers should be trained to recognise the symptoms of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke and understand the arrangements for obtaining assistance.
Review First Aid Arrangements
Periods of extreme heat may increase the likelihood of employees or others requiring first aid treatment. Employers should ensure first aid arrangements remain suitable and sufficient for the risks present, including the ability to respond quickly to heat-related illness. Trained first aiders should understand the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and appropriate facilities and equipment should be available. Welfare arrangements should be regularly monitored and reviewed to ensure they remain effective.
Summary
Extreme heat presents a real health and safety challenge for employers across a wide range of sectors. Whether staff are working in offices, warehouses, kitchens, construction sites or outdoor events, businesses must ensure suitable welfare arrangements are in place and effective. Access to drinking water, washing facilities, rest areas, first aid provision and a safe working environment are not simply best practice, they are fundamental elements of an employer's legal duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their workforce. By planning and taking sensible precautions, employers can reduce the risk of heat-related illness, improve worker wellbeing and maintain safe, productive operations throughout the summer months.
