With three official heatwaves already recorded this summer, businesses across the UK are increasingly experiencing the impact of prolonged hot, dry weather. As an industry we often focus on winter risks such as flooding and frozen pipes but the recent spell of extreme temperatures has highlighted a different set of challenges. For many businesses, particularly those in construction, agriculture, logistics and other outdoor industries, prolonged periods of hot weather can create significant health and safety risks.
Protecting employees during hot weather
Heat exhaustion, dehydration and fatigue can all affect employees working in high temperatures, increasing the likelihood of accidents and reducing productivity. We’ve put together a few hints and tips to support businesses in protecting employees during hot weather. Practical measures for outdoor workers include:
- Adjusting working hours where possible to avoid the hottest parts of the day
- Ensuring supervisors are aware of the signs of heat-related illness
- Providing regular access to drinking water
- Encouraging more frequent rest breaks
- Providing suitable shaded rest areas
- Reviewing PPE requirements where appropriate
Looking after employee wellbeing is not only good practice but also an important part of meeting your health and safety responsibilities. You can find more guidance at the HSE web site.
Wildfire risk is increasing
Dry grassland, woodland and agricultural areas have become increasingly vulnerable to fire during this prolonged period of dry weather. Wildfires can spread rapidly and have the potential to damage buildings, machinery, vehicles and business operations. Businesses operating near open countryside should review their fire prevention measures including:
- Reviewing emergency response procedures
- Checking that fire extinguishers and equipment remain accessible
- Keeping vegetation well maintained
- Removing unnecessary combustible waste
- Ensuring external storage areas are managed appropriately
Increased risk of subsidence
Extended periods without significant rainfall can also affect the ground beneath buildings. As clay soils lose moisture they shrink, increasing the potential for ground movement and subsidence. Older commercial buildings and properties located near mature trees may be particularly susceptible. Business owners and commercial landlords should remain alert for signs including:
- New or widening cracks in walls
- Doors and windows becoming difficult to open
- Uneven floors
Early investigation can often prevent more significant damage developing over time.
At Harborough Portas we work closely with businesses across Leicestershire and beyond to ensure they have the correct insurance protection in place to reflects today's changing risk landscape. If you would like to review your current insurance arrangements, as Chartered insurance brokers our experienced team would be pleased to help.
Author: Karl Yates, Managing Director, Harborough Portas
