With the rising temperatures in the UK continuing through to Friday and a Met Office amber heatwave alert issued for Southeast England, individuals could be at risk of dehydration, heat stroke or damaging their skin.
Indoors
Colleagues are encouraged to consider any adaptations they might need to make for staff, students and visitors during this heatwave.
The Health and Safety Executive advises that managers should assess the risks, taking into account the welfare of individuals and the work environment. This might mean allowing individuals to take regular breaks, encouraging them to keep hydrated and to maximise the use of air circulation fans.
Depending on your area of work, some managers may be able to consider allowing individuals to work flexibly. For example, starting earlier in the day or working later when the temperatures are likely to be lower. Some managers may choose to consider temporary relocation to cooler areas, including, where appropriate, working from home. This would need to be agreed with the line manager and in accordance with HR policy.
What are the dangers?
Heat exhaustion and dehydration can cause dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, accelerated pulse, nausea and fainting. Seek medical attention if you believe you are suffering heat exhaustion.
What can I do to protect myself from heat exhaustion and dehydration?
- drink plenty of cold drinks, especially when exercising
- wear light-coloured, loose clothing
- use a fine water mist to keep cool
- avoid the sun between 11:00 and 15:00
- avoid excess alcohol
- avoid extreme exercise
- rest when you need to
This will also prevent dehydration and help your body keep itself cool.
Outdoors
If you’re working or just relaxing outside, remember to protect yourself from the sun by sitting or working in the shade if possible, remaining hydrated, wearing loose and light-coloured clothing, applying high factor sun protection to your skin and wearing a hat to protect your head.
The sun is at its strongest from between 11:00 – 15:00 so if possible, you should try to avoid spending long periods of time in direct sunlight during these hours. Protect your eyes by wearing UV blocking sunglasses.
You can view Cancer Research UK’s top 10 sun safety myths debunked, here.
You can also find further information from the NHS on heatstroke and dehydration here.
