• Swindon & Wiltshire Governance
• Monday June 30 2025

At what point does it become Too Hot to Work?

With West workers struggling in 2025’s second heatwave, many are asking at what point it becomes too hot to work.

But that, says Andrew Wilkinson, director and senior safety consultant at Swindon-based Secure Safety Solutions, really depends on the circumstances.

While many office workers can turn on the air con, outdoor workers are more at risk – especially if they struggle to find shade.

“As there is no maximum set in legislation for upper levels of temperature, it can be difficult for employers to know when and what action to take. Therefore, it is extremely important to act,” said Andrew.

“Exposing employees to uncomfortably high temperatures without controls could be breaching The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations of 1992.”

To keep workplaces safe, Secure Safety Solutions has issued advice on to how create a safe environment and protect staff and businesses in these unprecedented times.

• When temperatures are high, opening a window can just blow in the hot air. Therefore, additional air coolers or air conditioners are great mitigators.
• Create shaded areas or put film on windows to control heat from direct sunlight. Be considerate that reflective film doesn’t reflect into another person’s area or onto a roadway.
• While maintaining PPE standards, teams can be encouraged to wear lighter clothing.
• Plan rest areas in cooler areas away from the workplace. Could be dedicated welfare cabins or even a more shaded space with a breeze away from the area of work.
• Rescheduling work can be very effective. Starting work earlier and either finishing before the hottest temperatures hit or splitting the day for rest during those ‘highs’ can be more productive.
• If working in extreme heat can’t be avoided, strictly manage and implement more and longer breaks to recover.
• Restructuring tasks so rather than doing work that leaves team members in direct sunlight, do those at the start or end of the day.
• Consider work equipment being used in the work area (both portable and fixed plant) as they may not be designed for prolonged usage during higher temperatures.
• Extra consideration must be given to vulnerable workers such as ones with medical conditions, pregnant, young or older workers who may be affected more by high temperatures.
• Hydration, hydration, hydration! Keeping hydrated when the body is sweating more is vital and failure to do so can lead to headaches, nausea and lack of concentration. This can lead to other workplace related injuries.
• Ensure staff have access to water at all times.

“Outdoor workers are typically the most affected by high heat, especially if they’re on a construction site or farming; where there is typically little shade,” commented Andrew.

“It is important to ensure teams are provided with adequate sun protection methods such as sun hats, UV-rated long sleeve clothing and suncream may be required under PPE.”

For employers who have flexible employment options or working from home arrangements, having employees stay at home is a great mitigator for the high summer temperatures.

“It’s also important to consider the impact of extreme heat on mental wellbeing, as high temperatures can increase stress, fatigue and reduce concentration,” concluded Andrew. “Checking in on how staff are coping and providing support can help maintain morale and keep everyone safe.”

Image by Steve Buissinne at Pixabay