Safeguarding staff in heat and sun, as temperatures set to soar through to late September!

Considering the wet summer that we’ve had so far, you would be forgiven if protecting staff from the heat and the sun isn’t exactly at the forefront of your mind!

However, with temperatures expected to reach an average of 22C during August and continue to be as high as 19C in September in the UK – and possibly much hotter in the South - it’s important to consider how you can support employees to remain well during the Great British summertime.

Ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of employees is, quite rightly a legal obligation (check the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974). But apart from that, it is also a fundamental aspect of fostering a productive and positive work environment that avoids sickness and promotes positive wellbeing. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 imposes an obligation on employers to conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify potential hazards related to heat exposure and take appropriate steps to address these risks.

Employers must consider factors such as the nature of the work, the environment, and individual employee needs, when planning their summer safety strategies.

Provision of Suitable Clothing

One of the most effective ways to protect employees from the summer heat is to provide appropriate clothing and uniform. Breathable, light-coloured, and loose-fitting clothing will help keep workers cool. For outdoor workers, hats and long-sleeved shirts are essential to shield the skin from harmful UV rays.

Companies like Network Rail and Thames Water have set commendable examples, by ensuring their outdoor workers are equipped with sun cream, hats, and lightweight, protective clothing. Providing clothing such as this is a tax-deductible expense and can also be a good way of promoting your brand, for example, by having caps that include your company logo.

Hydration and Rest Breaks

Adequate hydration is crucial for preventing heat-related illness. Employers must ensure that employees have access to sufficient drinking water, especially those working outdoors or in hot environments.

Providing water bottles and hydration stations is a practical approach that companies like Kier Group and National Trust have successfully implemented. In addition, scheduling regular rest breaks in cool, shaded areas allows employees to recover from the heat and maintain their productivity throughout the day.

Sun Protection Measures

Employers should supply sun protection measures such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for employees working outdoors. Educating staff on the importance of applying sun cream and wearing protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Thames Water and Network Rail, for instance, emphasise the importance of sun protection by providing these essentials to their field workers.

Monitoring and Education

Employers must also monitor weather conditions and adjust work schedules if necessary to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Flexibility in work hours can help reduce heat exposure and enhance employee comfort and safety.

Regular training sessions and informational materials can empower employees to take proactive measures to protect themselves.

More information

By following the examples set by companies like Network Rail, Thames Water, and Kier Group, employers can ensure that their staff remain safe, healthy, and motivated throughout the summer months.