This week, the TUC organised a nationwide heat safety inspection at workplaces. More than 1,000 union health and safety representatives signed up for this.
The union group warned that many workers would be more at risk as the UK is in the middle of its third heatwave and the month of June was the hottest on record.
It said that working in hot weather could lead to dehydration and fatigue, as well as muscle cramps, fainting or, in extreme cases, loss of consciousness.
Additional risks to working outdoors include sunstroke, heat stress, and skin cancer.
Safety checks in the workplace
The safety checks involve trade union representatives assessing workplace temperatures and discussing with employers the steps that can be taken to cool buildings and provide cooling spaces for workers.
Flexible working is also on the discussion agenda.
The UK has no maximum working temperature but does have a minimum. According to the HSE code of practice, the temperature at a workplace must be 16C.
The TUC welcomed the government’s commitment to modernize health and safety guidelines with reference to extreme temperature. The Health and Safety Executive is leading the review.
The TUC believes that the review should include maximum workplace temperatures guidelines. Employers must take steps to lower temperatures if it gets above 24degC, and employees feel uncomfortable.
It said that work should cease at a temperature above 30degC or 27degC if you are doing strenuous tasks.
Climate Change
The TUC noted that this was the hottest spring in UK history. The hottest June in England and second-hottest in Britain was recorded this year.
The TUC said that, given the rapid pace of change, it was urgent for the country to upgrade its infrastructure and buildings so they would remain functional during heatwaves. The TUC noted that many homes and offices were built for a climate different from today’s.
TUC said that more needs to be done on climate heating in order to stop such a rapid increase.
Paul Nowak, general secretary of the TUC, said: “Many of the best safety measures are common sense. Employers should, for example, allow flexible working hours in order to avoid the hotter parts of the day. Indoor workplaces need to be kept at a comfortable temperature, and dress codes should be relaxed.
“Most people know that climate change is necessary to protect our lifestyle. We can be proud of our progress. “Britain is building a foundation for cleaner and cheaper energy with wind, solar, and nuclear.”
Subscribe to our weekly HR news and guidance
Every Wednesday, receive the Personnel Today Direct newsletter.
