With temperatures rising across the UK, many workplaces are once again facing the challenges that come with working in hot weather.

Something that surprises many people is that in the UK there is currently no legal maximum working temperature. That does not mean employers can ignore the heat though. Employers still have a legal duty to ensure staff health, safety and welfare at work as far as reasonably practical.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises employers to assess temperature-related risks in the same way as any other workplace hazard.

Their guidance includes practical advice on:

• Managing workplace temperature
• Preventing heat stress
• Protecting outdoor workers
• Carrying out workplace temperature risk assessments

You can view the HSE’s guidance here:

• Temperature in the Workplace – is it too hot or cold to work?
• Managing Workplace Temperatures
• Temperature in the Workplace – what the law says

Why Hot Weather Matters

Heat can affect concentration, fatigue levels, hydration and overall wellbeing.

For people working outdoors, travelling between sites, wearing PPE or working in hot indoor environments, prolonged heat exposure can become genuinely exhausting.

Heat-related illness can also develop gradually, meaning people often try to “push through” symptoms instead of recognising early warning signs.

According to NHS guidance, signs of heat exhaustion can include:

• Headache
• Dizziness or confusion
• Excessive sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Weakness or fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pale, clammy skin
• Fast breathing or pulse

Without appropriate cooling and hydration, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.

Full NHS guidance can be found here.

Practical Workplace Measures During Heatwaves

Simple measures can make a significant difference during periods of hot weather.

Depending on the workplace and role, employers may wish to consider:

• Allowing more frequent rest breaks to permit regular hydration/toilet visits
• Improving ventilation or airflow
• Adjusting workloads where possible
• Providing shade for outdoor workers
• Monitoring staff for signs of heat exhaustion
• Reviewing PPE and uniform requirements where safe to do so
• Allowing flexible or home working where appropriate, helping reduce hot and exhausting commutes

Sometimes workplace safety is not about dramatic interventions. Often it is the simple, sensible adjustments that prevent problems from developing in the first place.

Prevention Matters

One of the key messages we teach in First Aid is that prevention matters just as much as emergency response.

Recognising risks early, supporting wellbeing and making practical adjustments during periods of extreme weather can all help keep people safer and healthier.

As the temperatures rise, staying hydrated, recognising the signs of heat-related illness and looking out for one another can make a real difference.

If you have staff who work in the outdoors, and particularly where those staff have responsibility for others, I can highly recommend the Sun and heat protection for sports and outdoor recreation course by the Melanoma Fund charity. Although aimed at outdoor sports coaches, the content is relevant to any outdoor workers; this CPD course is a free resource.