The Met Office predicts that this July (2022) the UK could experience the hottest day it has ever seen– as the current forecasts are already very close to the highest temperature ever recorded in the UK of 38.7C (101.6F).
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced a level three heat-health alert and although there is no legal maximum temperature for workplaces, employers have a responsibility to look after the wellbeing of their workers and reduce any risks to their health.
With temperatures reaching a sizzling South of Spain style-scorchio in the UK this week, here are some top tips for employers on how to keep your staff comfortable and safe during the heatwave.
Flexible Working
The UK may not benefit from a Mediterranean-style siesta culture, but if the global pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that many jobs can be done remotely. Therefore, employers might want to consider allowing staff to work from home where reasonable so that a sticky commute into the office can be avoided. The option to work from home would be particularly beneficial to employees who have underlying health conditions that might be exacerbated by the heat (such as high blood pressure), as well as pregnant and menopausal women.
Relax Your Dress Code
Where working from home is not ideal, employers may wish to think about relaxing the rules around dress code on especially hot days. As long as clothing is appropriate attire – i.e. no bikinis or speedos – workers would appreciate having the opportunity to dress more comfortably (e.g. by removing a tie, or swapping a shirt for a polo shirt).
Encourage Hydration
Ensure staff have access to drinking water and remind them to drink plenty of fluids during hot days to keep them hydrated.
Ventilation
Not all workplaces are air conditioned, but you can do your best to keep workers cool, calm and collected by keeping windows open or by using fans. Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure that temperatures in indoor workplaces are reasonable.
Encourage the Use of Sunscreen and Extra Breaks for Outdoor Workers
Remind workers who are exposed to the sun to protect themselves by applying sunscreen regularly. Workers who do physically demanding work would benefit from additional breaks during especially hot weather, which will help boost productivity.
Sunny Days
Parts of the UK are likely to be hotter than some of the world’s best beach destinations – such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, the Maldives and Hawaii – this week, so some employers may wish to offer their staff ‘sunny days’ – two days additional annual leave that can be taken during a heatwave. HR experts believe this may help to reduce sick leave and boost staff morale.
If you have any questions about this or any other HR issues, please do not hesitate to contact me on 02922 360 260 or email me on ami@aible.co.uk.
