Staying Safe When The Heat Is On

9th June 2025 Posted in Blogs

If you’re reading this in the U.K., you could be forgiven for thinking that the risks that come with warmer weather aren’t so relevant to you, but it’s becoming increasingly common to see high temperatures during British summers which means employers must prioritse the health and safety of workers exposed to heat especially those working outdoors or in poorly ventilated areas.

Why is heat such a serious workplace hazard?

Extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke — a life-threatening condition. It also increases the likelihood of accidents due to fatigue, reduced concentration, and slippery palms or surfaces.

High-risk sectors include:

  • Construction and infrastructure
  • Utilities and rail maintenance
  • Landscaping and groundskeeping
  • Agriculture and logistics

What are the legal responsibilities for Employers?

Here’s where it gets tricky, there’s currently no maximum legal working temperature under UK Law but the Health and Safety At Work Act 1974 requires employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees, which includes protecting them from environmental hazards like excessive heat – so ignore it at your peril.

The Management of Health and Safety At Work Regulations 1999 also require remployre to assess and manage risks, including those arising from hot weather.

What steps can employers take?

1. Adjust Work Schedules

  • Avoid strenuous tasks during peak sun hours (11 am–3 pm).
  • Consider early starts or split shifts to work around the worst heat.

2. Provide Shade & Rest Areas

  • Set up shaded rest zones on-site where workers can cool down.
  • Encourage frequent breaks, especially for new or vulnerable workers.

3. Hydration is Critical

  • Supply cool drinking water near work areas.
  • Remind workers to drink regularly, not just when they feel thirsty.

4. Issue Appropriate PPE

  • Lightweight, breathable, UV-protective clothing and hats.
  • Cooling gear such as neck wraps or vests where appropriate.

5. Train Workers & Supervisors

  • Teach early signs of heat-related illness (dizziness, headache, nausea).
  • Make sure everyone knows how to respond to symptoms.

Need some support? Get in touch for an informal chat!


From Twitter

Sign fitting company and director fined after fatal fall from scaffolding

A shop sign-making and fitting company and its director have been fined after an employee fell from an unguarded scaffolding tower and later died from his injuries.

https://buff.ly/EpSum33

“He's separating himself from her by calling her ‘love’ and diminishing her by saying ‘good try’, to an experienced journalist. Just answer the question.”

Michael Rosen calls Nigel Farage’s comments to Mishal Husain “pernicious”.

@DarrylMorris | #TimesRadio

As the seasons shift and autumn settles in, so do new health and safety risks—especially slips, trips and falls. With wet weather, falling leaves, and darker mornings and evenings, this time of year brings a spike in incidents across UK workplaces. ⬇️

https://safety-smart.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Safety-Smart-Preventing-Slips-and-Trips-In-Autumn-.pdf

Follow Us

Request A Call!

Want a free no-obligation consultation? Fill in the form below and we'll give you a call!