10 Tips for Safeguarding Employees During a Heatwave

To address this concern, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has provided comprehensive guidelines with cost-effective measures to mitigate the impact of high temperatures within the workplace:

1. Allow for proper ventilation by ensuring that windows can be easily opened or closed.
2. Use blinds or reflective film on windows to minimise heat absorption.
3. Arrange workstations away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
4. Insulate hot pipes and machinery to prevent additional heat emission.
5. Offer flexible working schedules that enable employees to work during cooler parts of the day.
6. Provide free access to drinking water to maintain hydration.
7. Consider relaxing dress codes, where feasible, to accommodate the heat.
8. Supply weather-appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure employee safety.
9. Encourage employees to remove PPE during rest periods, preferably in shaded areas, for cooling off.
10. Educate your employees about the symptoms of heat stress and the appropriate actions to take if affected.

In addition, the HSE emphasises the importance of communicating with your staff regarding any changes needed to manage the heat risk effectively. When it comes to fighting heat, open communication is the best policy.