The extreme heatwave hitting London this week has sparked concerns over impacts on health, schools and transport, as a rare red heat health alert is issued. Employers are being urged to assess any risks to workers as the heatwave kicks in, with Acas allowing more frequent or longer breaks and relaxing rules for wearing ties or suits in the office.
Acas advice for employers
Acas chief executive Niall Mackenzie said: “The Met Office has issued a weather warning for extreme heat, which will mean an uncomfortable week for many people. Some workers with certain health conditions or disabilities may be adversely affected by the heat. The hotter weather can also impact public transport, which can disrupt people’s journeys to and from work.”
Ruth Wilkinson, of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health, said: “Outdoor workers, such as those in agriculture, construction, and the gig economy, face the most immediate risks. But indoor workers aren’t immune as poor ventilation, lack of cooling infrastructure, and outdated building designs mean many are left to work in stifling conditions.”
Met Office forecast
The Met Office said this week’s heatwave will see temperatures exceed 37C in the shade and could even see them rise to 38C to 40C between Tuesday (June 23) and Thursday (June 25). The hot conditions, which have been very rare in the UK until now, will be accompanied by high humidity, and very warm and humid nights which will make it hard for people to recover overnight, the forecasters added.
Latest advice to schools
Meanwhile, the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) said it has written to all its members with guidance on dealing with the heat in schools this week, including impact on pupils and staff, legal positions and when to consider closure. Paul Whiteman, NAHT general secretary, said: “While there is no legal ‘upper limit’ for temperature in schools, (school leaders) will certainly be doing all they can to mitigate the effects of such high temperatures.”
Red heat health warning
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued the red health warning for six regions of England – the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, South West, London, and east of England – from 1am on Wednesday until 11pm on Thursday. This alert indicates “a risk to life for even the healthy population” as well as impacts beyond health and social care, with potential effects on transport systems, food, water, energy supplies and businesses. It is the second red heat health warning to be issued, after the first in July 2022 when temperatures soared above 40C in the UK for the first time.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: “Very hot weather is forecast across large parts of England in the coming days and we are urging health and social care services across the country to ensure they are prepared. It is vitally important that people understand the risk posed by high temperatures like these, and take steps to keep themselves and their friends, families and neighbours safe. Simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference. It’s also important to look out for others, especially elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”
What are the UK laws regarding working in extreme heat?
Under the government website's health and safety at work section, it states: "During working hours the temperature in all indoor workplaces must be reasonable." There is currently no law for minimum or maximum working temperatures, for example when it's too cold or too hot to work. But guidance recommends a minimum of 16C, or 13C for employees undertaking physical labour. No guidance exists regarding a maximum temperature threshold at the moment. Gov.uk states that employers must adhere to health and safety at work legislation, which includes maintaining a comfortable temperature and ensuring clean, fresh air. Workers are encouraged to raise concerns with their employer should the workplace temperature become uncomfortable.
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations stipulate reasonable workplace temperatures for indoor areas of construction sites. Where work takes place outdoors, adequate protection from harsh weather conditions must be provided, and site rest facilities must be kept at an appropriate temperature. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, employers are obliged to evaluate risks to workers and implement measures to safeguard them. Workplace temperature is among the hazards employers should assess, regardless of whether work is carried out indoors or outdoors.
