Employers Urged to Keep Staff Cool During Hot Weather

With the heat wave in full swing, employers are reminded that staff
need to be protected from the hazards of the hot weather. This is
especially so, as the law is hazy on what a reasonable workplace
temperature is.

Temperatures are expected to climb to 32°c in the UK, and with no
legal limit on the maximum workplace temperature, there is an
increased risk of employees suffering from heat-related illnesses such
as headaches and dehydration.

If workplaces are too hot, problems such as dizziness and nausea can
be expected. Excessive heat can also mean a less effective workforce
due to a lack of concentration and a higher number of mistakes being
made.

As no clear guidelines exist as to what is a reasonable temperature,
employees have no ground to claim that their workplace is too hot.
However, a reasonable temperature will be different for each
individual.

The HSE states that indoor temperature should be 'reasonable'
depending on the nature of the work i.e. this would be different for
kitchens, offices and coldstores. The HSE states that these minimum
temperatures are 16°c, or 13°c where work involves physical effort.
However, no maximum limit has been defined.

The HSE states that all reasonable steps should be taken to achieve a
comfortable temperature. Some of these are:

* Insulating hot pipes or plants;
* Shade windows;
* Site workstations away from areas which are subject to radiant heat;
* Use of fans and ventilation systems;
* Ensure a supply of cool drinking water;
* Relax dress codes if possible.

These measures can help to avoid the risk of dehydration, which will
therefore keep concentration levels up and sickness levels down.