Many Brits will pray for a quick end to the heatwave so they can enjoy the sun. Are there laws that force you to leave the office when it gets hot?
Health and safety expert Josh McNicholas, from and Evalu-8 EHS , reveals employee rights and health and safety rules that employers should follow when working during a heatwave.
Is it possible to be too hot for work?
Although there is no legal maximum temperature, the Health and Safety Executive suggests a reasonable work temperature. This should be at least 16degC and even lower if you are doing physically demanding tasks. Employers are required by the Health and Safety Executive to provide a safe and reasonable working environment. Employers must take the appropriate action if extreme heat is a threat to health and safety. This could include sending workers home.
Calculating a “reasonable” temperature
The type of job and workplace will have a large impact on whether or not the temperature is appropriate for working. If the job involves manual labor and will take place outdoors, the assessment will differ from that of an air-conditioned workplace. Employers should conduct a risk analysis, which includes identifying workers who are vulnerable, providing cool water, rest areas and changing work schedules and workloads as necessary.
Be ready to work fewer hours than usual
It is advised that employers be flexible during a heatwave even if this means breaking with their usual practices. Employers should make short-term changes to their working practices. They may insist that employees work at least two days a week and from 9-5. However, they could allow flexible hours, encourage remote working or shorten the day. It may be necessary to provide more frequent breaks for workers in physically demanding jobs.
Consider relaxing the dress codes
Many companies have dress codes in place that help them portray a specific image or brand to clients and customers. While business attire is popular, it can be uncomfortable to wear suits and formal clothing in the summer, especially if you work in a warm environment or commute every day. Staff will feel more comfortable at work if there is a relaxed dress code for summer or if the dress code is changed.
Dust the cobwebs from the air conditioner unit
The heatwave is still a few months away, and many workplaces have not had air conditioning for a while. However, the Workplace (Health, Safety, and Welfare) Regulations of 1993 (regulations 6 and 7) require employers to provide a safe work environment, by providing enough fresh or purified oxygen. It is important to maintain air conditioning systems regularly and replace filters. You can improve the air quality by adding plants and fans to your home, or increasing ventilation with open windows.
Can it get ‘too warm’ to work at times? The first time this article appeared on HR News was: Everything you need know about working during a heatwave.
