With summer heat waves now being a common occurrence in the United Kingdom, it is vital that businesses keep working areas within the recommended temperatures to keep employees comfortable and productive.

What are the laws around workplace temperatures? 

While there are currently no official laws for a maximum working temperature in the UK, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has called for a legally enforceable limit. The TUC suggest a maximum temperature of 30C for regular indoor work and 27C for strenuous work. The TUC also says employers should act to reduce temperatures if they exceed 24C in offices and commercial areas with air conditioners and fans.

Why hot temperatures can be bad for the workplace

Excessive heat in the workplace isn't just uncomfortable—it can have serious consequences for both employees and equipment. When temperatures rise, productivity drops, health risks increase, and machinery performance can be compromised.

• Heat Stress, Heat Exhaustion, and Heat Stroke – Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause dehydration, dizziness, fatigue, and in severe cases, heat stroke, which is a medical emergency.
• Increased Risk for Employees with Health Conditions – Workers with heart disease, asthma, or diabetes are particularly vulnerable to heat, as high temperatures can worsen their conditions.
• Reduced Concentration and Fatigue – Heat can impair cognitive function, increasing the likelihood of mistakes and accidents. This is especially dangerous in workplaces that require precision or operate heavy machinery.
• Overheating of Equipment – Many machines, especially those that rely on cooling systems, struggle in high temperatures. Overheating can lead to breakdowns, costly repairs, and even safety hazards.
• Increased Fire Risk – High temperatures can heighten the risk of electrical faults and overheating components, leading to potential fire hazards.

Slingsby, one of the UK's leading suppliers of industrial and commercial equipment, has some simple and practical tips on how employers can keep factory and warehouse staff safe and comfortable at work during hot weather and rising temperatures in the summer:

Check air conditioning and ventilation units are working at their optimum level

There may not be time to install new systems, but some quick maintenance checks could make all the difference. If more localised air cooling is required, in the case where air conditioning systems are not adequate or, air conditioning systems are not installed within industrial environments, then a combination of fans, mobile air coolers and evaporative air coolers can be adopted.

Install strip curtains

Place plastic PVC strip curtains over open building entrances to help block out harmful UV rays and maintain cool temperatures. 

Solar control window film to deflect heat

Solar-control window film can be installed quickly and will work to deflect the sun’s heat, especially on windows that you know receive a lot of direct sunlight. This method can help to reduce your reliance on air-conditioning and work to save on your energy bills.

Switch off machinery when not in use

Keep machinery and electrical equipment switched off overnight and when not in use. Placing signage near machinery to remind workers to ‘switch off when not in use’ could prove helpful too.

Water coolers in communal areas

Adding water coolers to communal areas can help staff members stay hydrated with access to cold water.

Add shelters in break areas

Encourage employees to take cover away from the direct sunlight during lunch and smoking breaks. Create additional temporary shaded areas outside with parasols if you have the space.

Measure temperatures

Monitor room temperatures across the different areas of your workplace with a thermometer.

Protection from allergies

During heat waves and throughout the summer, the pollen count may be high, so it is worth considering investing in air purifiers for your working environment. These innovative machines remove airborne allergies such as pollen and dust to make those with hay fever and asthma more comfortable.  

View our full range of products on slingsby.com  or email our team at sales@slingsby.com for further help. 

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