Heatwaves: preparing for the “silent killer” at work
2022 saw UK temperatures soar to above 40°C for the first time, while 2023 was the world’s hottest year on record. The Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has raised concerns over the UK’s lack of preparedness in its report on Heat resilience and sustainable cooling.
According to report, the “silent killer” of heatwaves could claim up to 10,000 lives annually in the UK without concerted action, with the most vulnerable at greatest risk. Physical and mental health can be severely impacted: the Committee heard that suicide risk is twice as high in the UK when the temperature was 32°C rather than 22°C.
Work-related injuries also increase, and interrupted sleep patterns due to high temperatures can cost the UK economy £60bn a year, or 1.5% to 2% of GDP.
The social and economic case for accelerating heat adaptation measures in the UK is clear-cut, and EAC recommends clear government messaging on the risks of heat events, underpinned by a national strategy on heat resilience.
Environmental Audit Committee Chair, Rt Hon Philip Dunne MP, said:
“The world is heating up, and in the coming year we may exceed an increase of over 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels: breaking a key ambition of the Paris Agreement. The record temperatures we are seeing in UK summers, triggered by climate change, pose significant risks to health and wellbeing, and swift action must now be taken to adapt to the UK’s changing climate.
“Projections suggest that without action, there could be 10,000 UK heat-related deaths annually. High temperatures are costing the UK economy £60 billion a year: so, measures to address the risks from overheating are simply a no-brainer.”
The EAC argues existing initiatives on insulation and energy efficiency should be developed into a national retrofit programme which should be delivered by local authorities, supported by long-term funding, focusing on insulation and ventilation, as well as passive measures, above active cooling mechanisms. Fans may also have a role, and the government should consider amending Building Regulations to encourage the use of ceiling fans.
Nature-based solutions offer important passive cooling measures and additional co-benefits. Parks, trees, water bodies and green infrastructure - such as green roofs – can have significant cooling effects and also help biodiversity and air quality. The EAC says the government must adopt a range of these measures, particularly in areas where the ‘urban heat island’ effect typically raises temperatures: for example, London can be up to 8°C warmer than surrounding rural areas.
These recommendations may have significant impact in the future, but in the meantime do little to aid employers in managing workplace temperature.
Currently, in the UK there is no maximum workplace temperature in which workers can work – an issue that hits the headlines every year when millions of workers swelter in non-air-conditioned offices, warehouses and factories.
The absence of a specific maximum workplace temperature regulation may be attributed to several factors. Different industries and job types have varying temperature requirements. For example, an office environment may have different temperature needs compared to a factory or outdoor worksite. It can be challenging to establish a single maximum temperature that applies universally across all workplaces.
Workplace temperatures can be influenced by external factors such as climate, geographic location, and seasonal variations. Establishing a single maximum temperature that accommodates all these factors may not be practical.
Accurately measuring and monitoring workplace temperature consistently across all industries and settings can be a complex task. The establishment and enforcement of a specific maximum temperature requirement may require substantial resources and infrastructure.
Instead of a specific maximum temperature, workplace safety regulations often focus on providing general guidelines for maintaining a safe and comfortable working environment. Employers are generally expected to take measures to ensure that working conditions, including temperature, do not pose health risks to employees.
Workplace safety and health organisations – such as the HSE, OSHA, and the ILO – often provide recommendations and guidelines for managing temperature-related issues in the workplace. Employers are encouraged to follow these guidelines and implement appropriate measures to address extreme heat conditions and prevent health risks to their employees.
The situation in the UK
Employers in the UK have a legal obligation to provide a safe and comfortable working environment for their employees under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. This includes managing workplace temperatures to prevent discomfort and minimise health risks.
The HSE provides guidance on maintaining a suitable working temperature. According to the HSE, the temperature in indoor workplaces should be reasonable and comfortable, taking into account factors such as the nature of the work being carried out, humidity, and sources of heat. The guidance suggests a minimum temperature of 16°C for most work environments and may recommend lower temperatures for more physically demanding tasks.
Additionally, employers are expected to take practical steps to control workplace temperatures, such as providing ventilation, ensuring suitable clothing options, and considering adjustments to working practices to mitigate the effects of high temperatures. Employers should also consider the thermal comfort of their employees and provide means for them to raise concerns about excessively high temperatures.
Practical measures
We’re not likely to see a heatwave any time soon, but it’s worth considering steps that can be taken when the weather hots up.
If employees complain about hot workplace conditions, there are several actions you can take as an employer to address their concerns and create a more comfortable working environment.
- Assess the situation. Investigate the office temperature and conditions to determine if they are outside the recommended range or causing discomfort. Use a reliable thermometer to measure the temperature in different areas of the office.
- Review ventilation and air circulation. Ensure that the office has proper ventilation and air circulation systems in place. Check that air conditioning, fans, or other cooling mechanisms are functioning effectively. Consider hiring a professional technician to inspect and maintain cooling systems regularly.
- Adjust their dress code. Review the dress code policy to allow more flexibility in terms of clothing during hot weather. Consider permitting lighter and breathable attire that is still appropriate for the work environment.
- Provide additional cooling options. Offer additional cooling options to employees, such as portable fans, desk fans, or air conditioning units, if feasible. These can provide localised cooling and alleviate discomfort.
- Adjust working hours or schedules. Consider implementing flexible working hours, where employees can start and finish work earlier or later when temperatures are cooler. This may help them avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Provide access to cold water. Ensure that employees have access to an adequate supply of cold drinking water to stay hydrated and manage their body temperature.
- Encourage breaks and rest periods. Encourage employees to take regular breaks in cooler areas of the office or outside if possible. This can help them cool down and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
- Communicate with employees. Engage in open communication with your employees about their concerns regarding office temperature. Encourage them to report any discomfort and provide a mechanism for them to express their suggestions or concerns.
- Consider workplace design and layout. Evaluate the office layout and design to identify any potential factors contributing to high temperatures, such as equipment generating excess heat or insufficient insulation. Address these issues if possible.
- Seek professional advice if needed. If the office temperature issue persists or the discomfort is significant, consider consulting with occupational health professionals or HVAC experts who can provide specific recommendations tailored to your workplace.
Remember, creating a comfortable work environment contributes to employee wellbeing, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. By addressing your employees' concerns about hot offices, you demonstrate your commitment to their welfare and can foster a positive work culture.
Predicting future changes in legislation regarding workplace temperature is challenging, as it depends on various factors such as evolving scientific understanding, societal concerns, political priorities, and advocacy efforts. However, it is possible that workplace temperature regulations could be subject to review and updates in the future.
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