The Great British summertime - the season where it either feels like it’s raining endlessly or temperatures suddenly soar into the mid-30s, with very little in between.
And while we all enjoy a bit of sunshine, recent summers have shown that periods of extreme heat are becoming less of a rare occurrence and more of a regular challenge.
With parts of the UK experiencing temperatures pushing towards record levels once again, many of us are finding ourselves trying to stay productive while feeling decidedly uncomfortable.
Whether you're office-based, working outdoors, travelling for work or balancing childcare arrangements, here’s what you need to know about working during a heatwave.
Myth-busting
One of the most common misconceptions during hot weather is that there’s a legal temperature at which employees can simply stop working and go home.
In reality, there is still no maximum legal workplace temperature in the UK.
What the law does require is that employers provide a "reasonable" working temperature and take steps to protect employees' health, safety and welfare. Heat is treated as a workplace hazard in the same way as any other risk, meaning employers must assess potential dangers and put appropriate controls in place.
That could include providing cooling equipment, improving ventilation, adjusting working practices or allowing greater flexibility around working hours.
The key point is that employers have a legal duty to manage the risks associated with excessive heat – even though there isn't a specific temperature limit written into legislation.
It's getting hot in here...
If your workplace has air conditioning, now is definitely the time to make sure it's been serviced and is working properly.
For workplaces without air conditioning, there are still plenty of practical ways to make the environment more comfortable:
Use desk or pedestal fans where appropriate
Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day
Open windows early in the morning before temperatures peak
Reduce unnecessary heat sources where possible
Consider relocating staff away from areas that receive direct sunlight
Employers may also want to think about whether certain tasks can be completed at cooler times of the day, particularly during periods of extreme heat.
For employees working outdoors, additional measures may be needed, including shaded rest areas, more frequent breaks and access to drinking water.
Dress code
When temperatures climb, heavy uniforms and formal business attire can quickly become uncomfortable.
While there is no legal obligation for employers to relax dress codes, many organisations choose to take a practical approach during particularly hot weather.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics can make a significant difference, and where health and safety considerations allow, employers may decide to permit more casual clothing for the duration of a heatwave.
As always, any adjustments need to be balanced against workplace safety requirements and professional standards.
Stay hydrated
This one may sound obvious, but it's incredibly important.
Even if you're working indoors and away from direct sunlight, dehydration can creep up surprisingly quickly during hot weather.
Employers must provide access to drinking water, and employees should make a conscious effort to drink regularly throughout the day rather than waiting until they feel thirsty.
Regular breaks can also help people cool down and avoid the effects of heat-related fatigue, which can affect concentration, productivity and wellbeing.
Getting to work
Heatwaves don't just affect workplaces - they can also cause significant disruption to travel networks.
High temperatures can impact rail services, road journeys and public transport, leading to delays and cancellations.
If you're concerned about potential disruption, it's worth checking travel updates before setting off and keeping your employer informed if you're likely to be delayed.
For those travelling by car, remember that vehicles left in direct sunlight can become extremely hot. Parking in the shade, using sunshades and allowing extra time for journeys can all help make commuting a little more comfortable.
When schools and nurseries close
A further workplace challenge is the knock-on effect heatwaves can have on schools and childcare settings, and therefore working parents.
While schools and nurseries generally remain open wherever possible, extreme temperatures can sometimes result in early finishes, reduced hours or temporary closures where buildings become unsafe or unsuitable for children.
For working parents, this can create significant disruption at very short notice.
Suddenly finding alternative childcare, rearranging meetings, changing shifts or taking time away from work can be stressful for both employees and employers.
Where possible, employers should recognise the additional pressures that working parents may face during periods of extreme weather. Flexible working arrangements, temporary homeworking options, adjusted hours or the ability to make up time later can all help reduce the impact.
Good communication is key. If childcare arrangements are affected, employees should notify their employer as early as possible so that alternative arrangements can be explored together.
As heatwaves become more frequent, many organisations are beginning to view weather-related childcare disruption in much the same way as transport disruption – something that requires flexibility and understanding from all sides.
Vulnerable workers
Extreme heat affects everyone differently.
Some people may be more vulnerable to heat-related illness, including:
Pregnant employees
Older workers
People with underlying health conditions
Those taking certain medications
Employees undertaking physically demanding work
Employers should consider individual circumstances as part of their risk assessments and make reasonable adjustments where necessary.
Simple measures such as additional breaks, alternative duties, remote working arrangements or adjusted hours can help ensure employees remain safe and comfortable.
Looking ahead
Whilst a few hot days can feel like a novelty, a heatwave can cause a series of headaches for employees and employers trying to go about their daily routines.
While there is still no legal maximum workplace temperature, employers have clear responsibilities when it comes to protecting staff from the risks associated with extreme heat.
And as rising temperatures continue to affect workplaces, transport networks, schools and childcare settings alike, flexibility, planning and open communication will be more important than ever.
So enjoy the sunshine where you can – just don't forget the water bottle!