After long spells of grey wet weather, the sunshine is a welcome tonic, but in extreme heat our body’s work harder, which makes us less likely to have a good nights sleep, and working conditions can be uncomfortable, especially when PPE has to be worn.
Climate change is already causing warmer temperatures in the UK, and hot weather can increase the risk of heart attack , stroke and lung problems. Those more at risk from the heat are older people, babies and young children and persons with underlying medical conditions and people on certain medications.
Further information on how to keep safe in the sun, can be gained by visiting Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather – NHS
Did you know that there is no Maximum workplace temperature in the UK ? However, the law states that “during working hours the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable.”
What employers SHOULD be doing :
- Employers are duty-bound to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare at work of their employees (HASAW Act). Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 – HSE
- Employers must undertake risk assessments to identify hazards in the workplace, including climate change-related hazards such as heatwaves.
- Measures to reduce the risk of harm to employees should be implemented. If conditions change, such as the risk of extreme temperatures, employers should review and update risk assessments accordingly.
- Employers must protect staff who are particularly vulnerable to heat, potentially requiring individual risk assessments.
More information on Extreme Heat in the workplace can be found on the main Unison Website Extreme Heat at Work: A Critical Health and Safety Issue | Health and safety: key issues | UNISON National
If you need any help support with health and safety, please do not hesitate to contact the branch on 0800 954 9915 or email unison@barnardos.org.uk
