Extreme Heat Prompts Concerns Over School and Work
With the Met Office issuing a rare red warning for extreme heat across parts of England and Wales, anticipated to reach up to 40C later this week, public attention has turned to how schools and workplaces should respond. This unprecedented weather event raises important questions for parents and employees about attendance and safety during high temperatures.
Schools' Response to High Temperatures
While there is no specific legal maximum temperature for classrooms in the UK, several schools within the red warning areas have announced early closures or full closures in anticipation of the most severe heat. The government typically advises against school closures, emphasizing the importance of continued education, but acknowledges that individual schools must manage safety.
Teaching unions suggest that indoor temperatures should ideally not exceed 26C. School leaders are expected to conduct risk assessments, monitor student well-being, especially for vulnerable children, and may adjust school operations. Any decision to close a school requires consultation with the chair of governors and the relevant academy trust or employer.
Measures Schools Can Implement
- Relaxing uniform policies to allow lighter, loose clothing and sun hats.
- Adjusting school hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
- Relocating lessons to cooler areas within the school building.
- Reducing vigorous physical activity during PE lessons, as recommended by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).
- Utilizing CO2 monitors to ensure adequate ventilation.
- Closing windows later in the day if outside temperatures exceed indoor temperatures (UK Health Security Agency - UKHSA advice).
- Avoiding the use of fans if temperatures surpass 35C (UKHSA advice).
Parents can support their children by ensuring they wear appropriate clothing, apply high-factor sunscreen, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Workplace Guidelines During Heatwaves
Similar to schools, the UK does not have a legal maximum working temperature. However, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) mandates that employers adhere to health and safety laws, which include maintaining a “comfortable” temperature and providing “clean and fresh air.”
Acas, a workplace advisory group, advises that employees generally need to follow their contracts and collaborate with employers to find safe working solutions. Workplace closures or an employee’s inability to work due to heat are considered last resorts in extreme circumstances. Acas CEO Niall Mackenzie stressed the importance of clear, timely communication and employer flexibility, such as relaxing dress codes.
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) recently advocated for a maximum workplace temperature to protect workers as heatwaves become more intense.
Employee Rights and Employer Responsibilities
An employee might legitimately refuse to work if the heat poses a “serious or imminent danger,” though such situations are rare. Employees with disabilities exacerbated by heat may request reasonable adjustments, such as access to a fan or working from home. Concerns should be raised with line managers. Unless there are exceptional circumstances, employees are generally expected to continue working.
Employer Strategies for Cooler Workplaces
- Allowing flexible working arrangements where feasible.
- Moving staff to cooler areas of the building.
- Relaxing formal dress codes.
- Providing more frequent breaks and access to cool drinks.
- Supplying fans or air conditioning.
- Ensuring proper ventilation by opening or closing windows as needed.
For those working from home, closing curtains to block sun and opening windows in the mornings and evenings can help. Electric fans should only be used if air temperature is below 35C, and not aimed directly at the body to prevent dehydration.
Outdoor Workers and Travel Considerations
Outdoor workers face significant health risks during heatwaves if not properly managed. The HSE recommends rescheduling work to cooler times, increasing rest breaks, providing shaded rest areas, and ensuring access to cool drinking water. Employers should also encourage appropriate clothing and sunscreen use.
Heatwaves can also disrupt transport. Network Rail has advised essential travel only in affected areas due to potential impacts on power lines and tracks. Acas suggests checking timetables in advance and employers being flexible with attendance. Drivers are urged by National Highways and the RAC to carry plenty of water and consider postponing non-essential journeys if their vehicles lack effective air conditioning.
Source: Can you keep your kids off school or refuse to work during a heatwave?