Increased risk of fire, heat damage to buildings and potential sun exposure for outdoor workers are all things you’ll need to consider to keep your business running smoothly when a heatwave hits.

Watch out for fire risks

When the temperature heats up, the risk of fires rises with it.  Paying extra attention to common causes could save you from having to deal with the nasty consequences.

Keep an eye on combustibles

Vegetation and accumulated rubbish in waste bins, skips and recycling compactors can all become drier and more combustible in extreme heat. Keep on top of your cleaning and maintenance schedule to make sure they’re removed before the extreme heat hits.

There’s no smoke without fire

If you have designated smoking areas in or near your business, it could increase the risk of a fire during periods of extreme heat. Check the surrounding area for any build-up of debris – particularly in or around bins – and make sure you dispose of any flammable material.

Keep plant and machinery cool

As it gets warmer, plant and machinery can work harder, particularly in the case of refrigeration systems. Providing extra shade during extreme heat could help cool things down. You could also consider creating non-combustible shelters for any machinery that is likely to be exposed to the sun for long periods of time.

Don’t let extreme heat damage your buildings

Many buildings in the UK are not designed to deal with extreme temperatures. Concrete buildings, for example, absorb more of the sun’s heat, making them more likely to overheat.

Excess heat can cause cracks and worn surfaces to deteriorate, while exposure to sunlight could cause roofs to warp and crack. Subsidence can also be a concern during extended periods of hotter, drier weather.

So, how do you make sure your buildings are as prepared as possible to face these risks?

Stay on top of maintenance

Longer and more frequent periods of extreme heat will take their toll on building materials, meaning your buildings might need a more rigorous maintenance routine to stay safe.

Create shade

Make the most of morning air circulation, but close curtains, blinds and shades as the heat rises to keep the inside of buildings as cool as possible.

Ventilate properly

High humidity mixed with a lack of air moving around can lead to mould growth, so be sure to ventilate your buildings regularly.

Protect your people

Whether your team are used to working outside full-time or based in a cool, air-conditioned office, they’ll need to take some simple precautions against the risks of extreme heat when the temperature rises.

Dress to keep cool

If your team have to be outside for any length of time, recommend they wear a cap or a hat. Also advise them to regularly apply plenty of sunscreen to protect themselves from the risks of UV exposure.

Stay hydrated

Make sure everyone has access to drinking water and remind them to take advantage of it. It’s easy to forget if we’re not in the habit of drinking lots of water year-round, which can quickly lead to dehydration during a heatwave.

Rethink your schedule

Dehydration, sun exposure and fatigue can all lead to a loss of concentration. If you have people doing particularly complex, physical or dangerous tasks – especially if they involve operating plant and machinery – it might be worth rescheduling for a cooler time of day, or even postponing until the heatwave has passed if you can.

Follow the guidance

There are government guidelines in place that can help you and your people avoid the worst risks of sun exposure and extreme heat. Find out more about keeping your outdoor workers safe from the sun here and more legal guidance around workplace temperatures here.