The temperatures in the UK are on the up, and employers in construction face higher threats of heat to their workforce. The moral and legal obligations of those in charge mean proper safeguarding is more pressing than ever.

A Guardian article in 2022 reported that over 4,500 deaths in England were due to high temperatures.

Tips to relieve heat stress and exhaustion

It’s important to know what to look out for; if your workers seem more tired, display weakness, dizziness, or have headaches, you’ll need to step in and take action. By implementing some of the following suggestions, you can successfully prevent these issues and ensure a healthier work environment.

Altering schedules is a great place to start. Opt for earlier starts and avoid working between 11:00 and 15:00, when the sun is at its strongest, significantly reducing the risk of heat-related illnesses. If possible, find a way to create shade. Less UV exposure also reduces the chances of Melanoma, a very common cancer in the UK. Supply PPE that covers more bare skin, hats, and glasses that are 100% UV-blocking.

As of April 2022, PPE regulations require employers to provide free PPE to casual and part-time workers. Adequate access to drinking water is an absolute must, hydration in the heat is critical. Providing suitable facilities is crucial to ensure workers stay healthy. More hands make light work, increase a team size to distribute the load more evenly or make it easier to rotate workers between rest and action.

It’s important to understand the external factors that contribute to heat-related issues. Providing information on the following can help workers make sensible choices and underscore the organisation’s duty of care:

• Medication
• Poor diet
• Lack of sleep
• Stress

Develop a comprehensive heat stress policy that addresses all job-specific details. This policy should apply to all levels of the employee hierarchy and outline aspects such as maximum shift lengths and average weekly hours. It should also include procedures for managing workers suffering from heat-related issues, and protocols for risk assessment and incident reporting. Encourage an open environment where employees feel comfortable raising concerns about heat stress, ensuring that decisions can be made efficiently and relevant training or information can be passed on.

By knowing official guidelines, spotting any warning signs and checking in on your employees, you will avoid any heat or exhaustion related issues and create a better relationship with your team. A healthy and well cared for workforce will produce the best results and remain safe from the dangers posed by increased heat. Negligence can lead to serious consequences, including legal actions and even fatalities. Don’t take any chances, prioritise your employees’ well-being!