As temperatures rise during the summer months, employers are increasingly considering how to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of their workforce. While warmer weather can lift morale, it can also affect employee comfort, productivity and, in some cases, health.
Taking a proactive approach can help reduce the risks associated with extreme heat while demonstrating your commitment to employee wellbeing.
Understand the impact of extreme heat
Working in high temperatures can lead to dehydration, fatigue, headaches and heat exhaustion, particularly for employees who work outdoors, travel regularly or spend long periods in warm environments.
Some people may be more vulnerable, including those with existing health conditions, pregnant employees and individuals taking medication that affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
Recognising these risks early allows employers to put practical measures in place to help keep their teams safe and comfortable.
Create a comfortable working environment
Although there is currently no maximum legal workplace temperature in the UK, employers have a duty to provide a safe and suitable working environment.
Simple adjustments can make a real difference, including:
- encouraging employees to stay hydrated
- improving ventilation where possible
- reducing direct sunlight with blinds or shades
- relaxing dress codes where appropriate
- allowing additional breaks during hot weather
- offering flexible working hours where practical.
For employees working outdoors, providing shaded rest areas, sunscreen and regular access to drinking water can further reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
Support employee wellbeing
Extreme heat can have a greater impact on employees with underlying health conditions or those experiencing mental health challenges. Regular check-ins and open conversations can help ensure support is available when it’s needed.
Employee benefits can also make a difference. Private Medical Insurance can provide faster access to medical advice and treatment through services such as virtual GP appointments, while an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) offers confidential emotional and practical support.
Together, these benefits help employees access the right support quickly, giving them the best opportunity to stay healthy and productive.
Plan ahead
As periods of hot weather become more common, reviewing your wellbeing strategy is an important part of supporting your workforce.
Benefits such as Private Medical Insurance, Health Cash Plans, Group Income Protection and Employee Assistance Programmes can all contribute to protecting employees’ physical, mental and financial wellbeing throughout the year.
At CLA Healthcare, we help employers find healthcare and employee benefits solutions that support healthier, happier workplaces. Whether you’re reviewing your current benefits or exploring new options, our experienced advisers are here to help.
Get in touch to find out more:
Telephone: 01274 717361
Email: healthcare@cla.org.uk
Website: www.clahealthcare.co.uk
CLA Healthcare is a trading style of Howden Employee Benefits and Wellbeing Limited, which is licensed to use CLA Healthcare as a trading name. Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing Limited is part of the Howden Group. Registered in England and Wales under company number 2248238, with its registered office at One Creechurch Place, London EC3A 5AF. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register No. 312841). Not all products and services offered are regulated by the FCA.