It has been announced that the UK can expect consistent temperatures as high as 35℃.
In extreme heat, certain groups of employees such as the elderly and Pregnant woman. Can be severely affected. As well as the difficulty the weather can cause people while commuting to work.
Harwood HR has provided the following tips for employers to implement, to safeguard your employee’s wellbeing and support productivity.
Staying Hydrated:
Staying hydrated is important for both the body and mind. So, employers should be providing chilled drinking water in the workplace, so that they can stay hydrated throughout the day. Employees should not wait until they are thirsty to drink water, especially in high temperatures.
Venerable Employees
Vulnerable employees can be persons who are on, medications, the elderly, Pregnant women, or anyone with a long-term illness. Employers should be more cautious in ensuring that these employees, have access to enough ventilation and consider encouraging them to take regular breaks.
Workplace Temperature
Temperatures in all workplace buildings should be reasonable, as advised by the HSE (Health and Safety Executive). If you have not yet considered the temperature of your workspace, and whether it is reasonable for your employees, you may need to conduct a risk assessment.
Make sure to turn on the air conditioning, use fans and close blinds to reduce heat and make the workplace more comfortable where possible. If your employees are working outside, please encourage them to wear sunscreen and adjust their clothing for the weather where possible.
Work Commuting and Dress Code
Employers should encourage staff to plan their work journeys, as the weather can cause delays in commuting to work. The dress code also needs to be taken into consideration as, employers might want to take a more relaxed approach to the employee dress code, during the hot weather.
Employers should also make sure they know the signs of heat related problems and know when possible medical attention is needed.
