24/06/2026
Summer has officially started and temperatures this week are set to reach nearly 40°C in parts of the UK 🥵 Here are a few key things to watch out for:
1️⃣Dehydration
It's easy to become dehydrated when working in hot weather. Employers: make sure your employees have easy access to free water, and encourage more frequent breaks to keep everyone sipping throughout the day.
2️⃣Overheating
Of course, many tasks require protective clothing. But take the time to review uniforms or PPE, and, without sacrificing safety, see if you can make changes for more breathable materials to prevent workers overheating. If not, then make sure workers aren't out in the sun for too long in clothing that conserves heat well, to prevent heat exhaustion.
3️⃣Storms
We've had some pretty intense storms across the country recently. In stormy weather, be careful when it comes to working around trees, cranes, or electricals. Mind out for strong winds, and make sure your first aid and rescue protocols are up to date in case of an emergency.
4️⃣Skin protection
Yes, we know, many people don't like suncream. But I bet you don't like sunburn even more. Unfortunately, brand new research has shown that the number of melanoma skin cancer cases hit a record high in 2022, with 20,000 diagnoses across the UK. If you don't want to wear suncream, then try wide brimmed hats or lightweight clothing where possible to keep off UV rays.
Need some more advice? Here's a link to our free summer working guide https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0wq1QJ0
Or, looking for some support over the summer? Doesn't matter if you need eLearning, HR, or Health & Safety - we're here to help. Get in touch today on our website! https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0wq1Jf0
