The UK’s historically wet and cool climate means that businesses here are not used to having to worry about hot weather and its impact on employees and workers. However, times are changing. Global temperatures are rising and the UK has seen record temperatures and prolonged hot spells both in June and, most recently, in early August. What do employers need to know about working in hot weather? Here are some handy hints:

  • There is no maximum temperature beyond which employees are not required to work in the UK
  • The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require employers to make a suitable assessment of the risks to the health and safety of their employees and take action where necessary and where reasonably practicable. This obligation applies to the risks posed by extreme heat. Employers should assess the risk posed in their workplace and look at what mitigation measures they can put in place.
  • Examples of measures which could be taken to reduce health and safety risk include the provision of fans; moving working hours where possible to avoid employees needing to work in the heat of the day; making sure that water is accessible at all times and relaxing rules on uniform.
  • Employers should take special care when considering the risk posed by heat to pregnant workers and any employees with disabilities. If hot weather prevents a disabled employee from carrying-out their role then the employer would need to look at what adjustments it could reasonably make to allow that employee to be able to work. 

Speak to Jon Dunkley

Jon is a Partner at Wollens and can advise you. Contact Jon via email jon.dunkley@wollens.co.uk or call 01271 341021.

Jon Dunkley - Wollens Solicitors Devon

You can also complete an online enquiry form. One of the Wollens team will contact you as soon as they are available.

Related News & Insights

2 minute read
Wollens feature in most Recommended Law Firms in the South West! - Wollens Solicitors Devon

Wollens feature in most Recommended Law Firms in the South West!

Read Article
4 minute read
Understanding Shaken Baby Syndrome: A Guide for Parents - Wollens Solicitors Devon

Understanding Shaken Baby Syndrome: A Guide for Parents

Read Article
6 minute read
Buying your next home, Proof of funds - Wollens Solicitors Devon

Buying your next home, Proof of funds

Read Article
5 minute read
Entrepreneurs: are you leaving a headache for your executors? - Wollens Solicitors Devon

Entrepreneurs: are you leaving a headache for your executors?

Read Article
2 minute read
Chloe Emery qualifies as Solicitor at Wollens - Wollens Solicitors Devon

Chloe Emery qualifies as Solicitor at Wollens

Read Article
5 minute read
Devon Local Government Reorganisation Approved: What Does It Mean for Planning? - Wollens Solicitors Devon

Devon Local Government Reorganisation Approved: What Does It Mean for Planning?

Read Article
3 minute read
Electronic and workplace balloting: what employers need to know - Wollens Solicitors Devon

Electronic and workplace balloting: what employers need to know

Read Article
8 minute read
Breach of fiduciary duty – how should a director respond to an accusation of breach? - Wollens Solicitors Devon

Breach of fiduciary duty – how should a director respond to an accusation of breach?

Read Article