As large swathes of the UK are subject to yellow heat health warnings this week, the CIPD has urged employers to lean on flexible working arrangements to help employees keep cool.
With daytime temperatures forecast to hit 30C (86F), the UK Health Security Agency has put out a heat health alert for the South and East of England, the Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber and the North West. The alerts will remain in place from Monday 24 June until Thursday 27 June.
“During periods of hot weather, health and safety needs to be a number one priority,” said Ben Willmott, head of public policy at the CIPD.
“Employers should be particularly mindful of those with a disability or health condition, or those in safety-critical roles like drivers and construction, as the heat can affect people’s concentration and cause fatigue.”
Flexible options
Willmott said: “Where possible, employers should offer flexible working options in terms of where and when their staff work. Working from home may allow employees to be more comfortable and productive.
“Where roles can’t be done from home, employers should explore other forms of flexibility. For example, flexibility in start and finish times to avoid the peak hour commute, which can be particularly challenging or disrupted in hot conditions.
“Some workplaces, such as old buildings, feel the impact of a heatwave more than others. There’s no specific legal maximum temperature for workplaces in the UK, but employers should take steps to try and ensure the temperature is reasonable.”
He urged businesses to put measures in place to “maximise employee comfort”, so people can get on with their jobs. Such measures include providing fans if there’s no air conditioning, easy access to cold drinking water and relaxing strict uniform dress codes.
“Employers may also want to be proactive about support and adjustments ahead of any hot weather, so people can discuss options with their manager in advance,” he added.
