Here we go again – it looks like heat records are being smashed as we swelter in the hottest summer for years.
That’s great if you’re planning a barbie, but let’s face it: for everybody using your premises, the high temperatures can make life and work a real chore.
Heatwaves can pose a deadly threat – scary Government statistics from 2022 show nearly 3,000 people died in England from heat-related illness.
Chris Hickman, CEO of Bison Assist, says: “The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) says that although there’s no maximum legal workplace temperature, employers still have a legal duty to protect people from the risks of excessive heat.
“In fact, you’re legally responsible for the health and safety of everyone using your premises, whether you run a care home, a church, a warehouse or a retail unit.
“It’s why you need to stay on top of any obvious potential issues such as Legionella infection or fire with the help of risk assessment experts like my nationwide team.
“So like any other workplace hazard, you need consider hot weather part of your health and safety management, and make sure you have sensible measures in place.”
Keep Cool When the Sun Shines – Our Bison Top 10 Tips
- Remember: hot weather affects everyone differently. Some people cope well, while others can quickly become unwell, particularly older workers, pregnant employees, those with underlying health conditions and anyone carrying out physically demanding work.
- Be aware of the symptoms of heatstroke. People who get too hot can develop dehydration, heat exhaustion or even heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Early warning signs include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Excessive sweating
- Feeling faint.
- Make sure everyone drinks water. The hydration breaks in the World Cup are criticised, but they’re there for a good reason: even mild dehydration can affect concentration and reaction times and decision-making, increasing the risk of mistakes, accidents and injuries.
- Keep the sun at bay. Employees working outdoors can be at risk from sunburn and long-term skin damage. Provide access to shade, encourage regular breaks and supply protective clothing where needed.
- Watch out for other seasonal hazards: Hot weather can cause poor air quality, increased pollen levels, glare affecting drivers and screen users, insect bites and stings, as well as additional food safety risks where food is prepared or stored.
- Small changes can make a big difference. Where possible, improve airflow by opening windows or using suitable ventilation. Closed blinds stop heat building up, and workstations should be moved away from direct sunlight if possible.
- Think about physically demanding work. Can tasks be moved to cooler times of the day or broken up with more rest breaks? Provide a cool place to recover.
- Talk about the heat. Make sure everyone knows what measures are being taken, listen to complaints and ask for suggestions.
- Dare to be different. Is it time to allow shorts in your workplace? Think about it!
- Book your next risk assessments now. It’s hot, but scheduling your next visits from Bison means one thing you no longer need to worry about.
And if you need help and advice on health and safety during this exceptional Summer, give our friendly expert team a call – always happy to help!