CIPD advises employers to embrace flexible working options to help employees keep cool in hot weather

Rachel Suff, employee relations adviser at the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, said:

“During periods of hot weather employers should take proactive steps to ensure the wellbeing and comfort of their staff. This includes offering flexible working arrangements where possible, for example allowing employees to work from home if they are more comfortable and productive there, or flexible working hours where roles can’t be done from home. Commuting can be arduous in very hot weather, so allowing people to stagger their start and finish times can help them to avoid peak hour travel.

“While many workplaces will have good air conditioning, which can greatly improve comfort, some workplaces, such as old buildings or those made with a lot of glass, can become extremely hot during a heatwave. There’s no specific legal maximum temperature for workplaces in the UK, but employers have a duty of care and should ensure the temperature is reasonable.

“This means providing fans if there’s no air conditioning, easy access to cold drinking water, and relaxing uniform dress codes where possible. Organisations will benefit from being proactive about potential support and adjustments ahead of any hot weather, for example by carrying out risk assessments, so people can discuss options with their manager in advance.

“These measures can help organisations ensure the health and safety of their workforce. Employers should be particularly mindful of disabled people and those with a health condition who could face particular challenges during these times. They should also pay particular attention to employees in outdoor and safety-critical roles, like drivers and construction workers, as extreme temperatures can impair people’s concentration and cause fatigue, which may have safety implications. By speaking to employees and finding out what their needs are, employers will be in a good position to ensure employees can stay comfortable and productive.”