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

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.

• 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.
• 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.

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.