As we enjoy the warmer weather, it’s important to remember that prolonged exposure to heat and the sun can pose serious health risks, particularly for those working outdoors or in hot environments.
At Chestnut Associates, we have been helping businesses create safer workplaces for over 35 years. As temperatures rise, we want to remind employers and employees of the importance of recognising the signs of heat-related illness and taking simple steps to stay safe.
How Heat Affects the Body
Our bodies naturally regulate temperature by sweating and increasing blood flow to the skin. However, when temperatures become too high or humidity is excessive, these cooling mechanisms become less effective.
This can lead to:
- Dehydration – Losing more fluids than you replace can cause headaches, dizziness, fatigue, reduced concentration and muscle cramps.
- Heat Exhaustion – Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, dizziness, rapid pulse and fainting. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke.
- Heat Stroke – A medical emergency where the body’s temperature rises above 40°C. Symptoms include confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, hot dry skin (or sometimes profuse sweating) and collapse. Immediate medical attention is essential.
The Effects of the Sun
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation doesn’t just cause sunburn—it can have long-term health consequences.
These include:
- Painful sunburn.
- Premature ageing of the skin.
- Increased risk of skin cancer.
- Eye damage, including cataracts.
- Heat stress when combined with high temperatures.
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still be strong enough to damage the skin.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Some people are more vulnerable than others, including:
- Outdoor workers.
- Construction and agricultural workers.
- Delivery drivers.
- People working in warehouses, kitchens or other hot indoor environments.
- Older adults.
- Those with underlying health conditions or taking certain medications.
Practical Ways to Stay Safe
Employers should consider:
- Providing plenty of cool drinking water.
- Encouraging regular rest breaks in shaded or cool areas.
- Scheduling physically demanding tasks during cooler parts of the day where possible.
- Providing suitable sun protection, including hats, sunscreen and lightweight clothing.
- Ensuring good ventilation in indoor workplaces.
- Training employees to recognise the early signs of heat-related illness.
Employees can also help protect themselves by:
- Drinking water regularly before feeling thirsty.
- Wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
- Applying sunscreen with an appropriate SPF and reapplying throughout the day.
- Taking breaks in the shade whenever possible.
- Looking out for colleagues who may be showing signs of heat stress.
A Shared Responsibility
Employers have a duty to assess the risks from hot working conditions and implement suitable control measures to protect their workforce. Preparing for periods of hot weather is just as important as preparing for winter conditions.
By recognising the risks early and taking sensible precautions, we can all help prevent heat-related illness and ensure everyone stays healthy and safe during the summer months.
Chestnut Associates has proudly supported businesses with practical health and safety advice for over 35 years. If you would like guidance on workplace risk assessments, employee wellbeing or compliance with health and safety legislation, we’re here to help.
Stay safe, stay hydrated, and enjoy the sunshine responsibly.
If you need any support please contact me joanne@chestnutassociates.co.uk