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Hot under the collar
Shropshire employers must take into account the soaring temperatures and ensure their staff are comfortable, a local solicitor has warned.
John Mehtam is the Employment Law specialist at Martin-Kaye Solicitors, in Euston Way, Telford, and he said this year's extreme heatwave was making life difficult in the workplace.
"It may be good news for ice cream and drinks sellers, but many companies will find productivity is wilting as their staff struggle to cope.
"The heat affects people's concentration and you may find that staff take longer to complete even the most routine jobs.
"So to maintain a happy workplace, and ensure your productivity doesn't fall too far, it's vital that you help staff by doing everything you can to keep them cool."
John said many companies who usually had strict dress codes had eased their rules - not necessarily for front-line staff dealing directly with customers, but for staff who work behind the scenes.
"And make sure the working environment has plenty of air circulating - introduce fans, and if you have air conditioning, use it.
"If need be, install blinds to stop the sun blazing through the windows onto people's work stations, or if possible, move computers to a more shaded area of the office.
"You could also give your staff the opportunity to work flexible hours if it's appropriate, so they can avoid the hottest part of the day, and get their work done in the early morning, or later in the evening when the sun goes down.
"And while there is no legal maximum working temperature, employers do have a general duty of care to ensure their staff's health and safety.
"It's important to carry out a risk assessment and ensure there are sufficient thermometers on your company premises to show working temperatures, as this is a specific legal requirement.
"You should also make sure open windows and doors are safely secured, and encourage employees to drink plenty of fluids and take regular breaks.
"This year's heatwave looks set to break all previous records, and
could seriously threaten the day-to-day running of your business. But
if you take careful steps to help your staff through the testing temperatures,
you will find there's less chance of anyone getting hot under the collar."