Working outdoors in hot weather

Working outdoors during the summer can be hard and challenging for both indoor and outdoor workers.

Workers who are exposed directly to the sun are especially at risk of skin damage from UV rays and exposure to extreme heat from high temperatures and prolonged periods of exposure to heat, which could result in sunstroke, heat exhaustion or heatstroke. If employers don’t correctly control the risks associated with hot weather, then this can result in serious injury and could even be fatal to workers who are exposed to it.

Outdoor workers such as roadworkers and construction workers to name a few are most likely to be at risk from the sun.

Some workers may enjoy the feeling of the sun and the hot weather, but they might underestimate the dangers of UV radiation and the risks of extreme heat.

Employers have a duty to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of their employees who are exposed to hot weather.

Is there a legal working temperature?

There is no maximum working temperature. However, all workers are entitled to an environment where risks to their health and safety are properly controlled. Heat is classed as a hazard just like any other hazard, and employers are required to assess the risks associated with heat and put controls in place to mitigate the risk.

Some of the risks from outdoor work include dehydration, heat stress, heatstroke, exhaustion, and fatigue.

What are some of the risks of working outside in the heat?

Dehydration - Dehydration is when the body loses more fluids than you take in and if this is not treated, it can result in the person becoming lightheaded and even passing out.

Heat stress - Heat stress happens when the body's way of controlling its internal temperature starts to fail.

Heatstroke and exhaustion – This can occur if an individual starts to overheat. This can happen during a heatwave or if they are carrying out very strenuous physical work.

How can employers protect their workers from the heat?

The enforcing authorities recognise that it is not practicable to completely avoid work in the open air and sun. However, they do expect employers to take account of the risks when managing the health and safety of their workers.

They expect employers to give the workforce advice about sun protection and dangers in routine health and safety training by having direct conversations with outdoor workers through toolbox talks.

Employers should also encourage workers to keep covered up during the summer months. A long-sleeved shirt and a hat with a brim or flap that protects the ears and neck are ideal.

Whenever possible workers should stay in the shade during their breaks and especially during their lunchtime. Employers should encourage their workers to use a high-factor sunscreen of at least sun protection factor 15 on any exposed skin. It’s important that outdoor workers remain hydrated so, employers must ensure that suitable drinking water is provided and easily accessible.

On particularly hot days and when very high temperatures are forecast consider work schedules. If possible, avoid working through the hottest part of the day, usually between 11.00 and 15.00. Consider whether work could commence earlier than normal or whether work in the shade could be scheduled for the hottest part of the day. Employers should encourage workers to check their skin regularly for unusual spots or moles that change size, shape, or colour and to seek prompt medical advice if they find anything that causes them concern.

Record keeping

Records of employee training and instruction and of the issue and receipt of personal protective equipment should be kept. They should be kept either with personnel files or safety management records.

BrAInbox can help you with answers to questions on working in hot weather, like What should I do if my staff members are complaining about the hot weather?

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