Heatwaves could be a potential health and safety risk for some
Following the hottest May Day on record, heatwaves across the country are still expected to bring temperatures exceeding 30ºC in several regions. As the extreme heat has triggered yellow and amber warnings from the UK Health and Security Agency, many workers are questioning whether they are permitted to carry on working in such conditions.
Legally, there is no fixed minimum or maximum temperature beyond which people cannot work. But under government guidance there are numerous steps employers should be taking to ensure staff remain safe during periods of extreme weather, which can pose a serious health and safety risk.
This makes clear that there is no set maximum temperature for safe working. This is often because many workplaces are hot not due to the season but simply owing to the nature of the work carried out there such as bakeries or foundries.
However, employers are still required to follow health and safety regulations, including maintaining a comfortable temperature in the workplace and providing workers with fresh, clean air. Official guidance states: “Employees should talk to their employer if the workplace temperature is not comfortable.”
Those working on construction sites are afforded additional protections during heatwaves. As the Liverpool Echo reported, the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations stipulate that reasonable workplace temperatures must be maintained in indoor areas of construction sites. Where work is carried out outdoors, sufficient protection from severe weather conditions must be provided. Site rest facilities must also be maintained at a suitable temperature.
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, employers are additionally required to evaluate risks to their workforce and put measures in place to protect them.
According to the Health and Safety Executive website: “All workers are entitled to an environment where risks to their health and safety are properly controlled. Heat is classed as a hazard and comes with legal obligations like any other hazard.”
Workers required to operate in extreme temperatures may be at risk of heat stress. This occurs when the body’s ability to regulate its own temperature begins to break down, and is typically affected by air temperature, humidity, work rate and clothing worn.
Symptoms of heat stress include:
- an inability to concentrate
- muscle cramps
- heat rash
- severe thirst
- fainting
- heat exhaustion like fatigue, dizziness, nausea, headache, moist skin
- heat stroke like hot dry skin, confusion, convulsions and eventual loss of consciousness
Heat stress can frequently be a year-round concern in certain workplaces, such as manufacturing plants, boiler rooms, laundries and compressed-air tunnels.
Dehydration can also pose a significant risk when working in hot conditions. The Health and Safety Executive advises drinking cool water regularly and in small quantities to counteract the effects of sweating, but cautioned that feeling thirsty alone isn’t always a reliable indicator of dehydration.
It noted: “When working at a high rate in heat stress conditions, workers should drink around 250 ml (half a pint) every 15 minutes.”