Staying safe in hot weather
With the hot weather set to continue into the coming weeks, it is important that we take measures to stay safe.
There are various ways we can avoid the hazards associated with high temperatures and maintain a safe and comfortable working environment.
Heat hazards
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At high temperatures the atmosphere can become heavy, causing us to feel sleepy and less aware of dangers. This can cause an increased risk of accidents and injury.
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Thermal discomfort gives rise to reduced efficiency which can lead to poor decision making.
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Heat Exhaustion can occur in sedentary as well as manual work. It occurs due to inadequate fluid intake to replace fluids lost by sweating. Fluid imbalance gives rise to nausea, light headedness, and general weakness with an elevated temperature. If untreated it can lead to fainting and possibly heat stroke.
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Heat Stroke is a life-threatening condition where the body loses the ability to control its own temperature. It can arise from untreated heat exhaustion or be due to conditions of high humidity. In very humid conditions sweat cannot evaporate from the skin so the body cannot cool itself effectively.
Who is at risk?
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Those who work outdoors
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Those who work in hot environments, such as kitchen staff
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Elderly residents. As a person gets older their temperature control mechanisms become less efficient.
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Vulnerable adults
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Young children. Children cannot control their body temperature as efficiently as adults during hot weather because they do not sweat as much and so can be at risk of ill-health from heat.
Look out for others
It’s important that we look out for elderly, ill and very young people and make sure they are able to keep cool and safe during hot weather.
If you have elderly or vulnerable friends, family or neighbours, check on them whenever you can. If you are concerned for somebody or require support, ring a doctor or social services.
NHS Wales have further information on their website, along with specific guidance for the public, those looking after children, event organisers and health professionals:
Precautions to take
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If possible, avoid going into the sun.
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If possible, carry out outdoor and manual work during a cooler time of day, for example, before 11am or after 3pm.
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Take frequent breaks in a cool environment away from the sun and sources of heat such as cooking equipment.
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Increase ventilation by opening windows and making use of fans, and air conditioning units.
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Close the curtains or blinds to keep the glare of the sun out.
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If you are working outdoors apply suntan lotion with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30 and wear a hats and neck protection. This should be provided by a manager if the working environment cannot be modified.
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Unless your work clothing is considered critical to your safety, opt for light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing to stay cool.
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Drink plenty of water. It is suggested that staff carrying out manual labour in hot conditions should drink 8 pints of water per day plus a further pint for every hour worked. Drinking water should be supplied by a manager in this scenario.
You can find further advice on working in hot weather in the Council’s working in hot weather guidance:
Working in Hot Weather / Environments – Managers Q & A
If you have any queries, please contact Sue Williams: