Weather warning: guidance and information
A Level 3 Heatwave Weather Warning has been issued on 8 August, between 1200 on Tuesday 9 August and 1800 on Saturday 13 August.
Working outdoors
High temperatures and intense sunlight pose a particular risk to those required to work outdoors, and additional risk control measures might be required to prevent acute issues such as heat stress and heat stroke, and longer-term health issues associated with prolonged exposure to intense UV light.
Events
Those departments organising events during this period will work with their contractors, event organisers and others to review and update any relevant risk assessments and Event Safety Management Plans to ensure the health and safety of contractor staff and visitors during this period.
Staying safe and well
The UK Government has on how to stay safe and well during the heatwave, which includes:
- Staying hydrated – drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids
- Dressing for the weather – wear a hat and lightweight, loose fitting clothing to shield your skin from the sun
- Slowing down, and finding somewhere cool whenever possible
- Job Rotation – where working outside consider rotating staff, to allow for cooling down.
And for those who are based indoors
- Dressing for the Weather - Relaxing dress codes and uniform policies.
- Allow for regular rest breaks and adjusting shifts to avoid travelling in peak heat.
- Consider moving workstation away from windows and other heat sources, using blinds to block out sun.
- Enjoy the cool drinking water from our water machines spread across Campus.
More information
- You can find out more about additional control measures for those working outdoors in high temperatures from the Health and Safety Executive .
- You can find out more about heat related illness, including common signs and symptoms, from the . You can also see NHS guidance with .
- If you require further advice and support please use the 'Ask for H&S Advice' form via the and a member of the Health and Safety Team will be in touch.
- Advice on how to reduce the risk can be obtained from the page, from your doctor or local chemist, or ring NHS 111.
Working indoors and travel
If it is essential for you to come onto campus for work, here is some useful information.
Estates colleagues have been checking and adjusting air handling and cooling to help keep indoor spaces as cool as is reasonably practicable. We are also making use of the guidance provided by bodies such as the Department of Health and Social Care, the Health and Safety Executive and the TUC.
Travel
The government has advised against all but essential travel during the weather warning. Travelling to work where work cannot be done from home is essential travel.
- Carry plenty of water with you when travelling
- Discuss adjusting shifts with your manager or supervisor, to avoid travelling in peak heat
- Try to lift share with others to avoid public transport wherever possible
- If you are driving to work, try to park in a shaded place wherever possible
- If you are cycling to work, try to keep moving at a reasonable (but safe) pace to feel the benefit of the cooling air as you move and avoid over exertion on hills
General tips
- Drink plenty of water (avoid caffeinated, carbonated or alcoholic drinks) using the water dispensers available
- Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes, and speak with your manager or supervisor about relaxing dress codes and uniform policies where possible
- If possible, work away from direct sunlight or sources of radiant heat
- If this is not possible, take regular breaks in cooler areas or buildings
- Use window blinds (if available) to cut down on the heating effects of the sun
- Use fans or other mechanisms to cool the air, as well as adequate ventilation
- Avoid physical exertion where possible especially during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- Try to move more slowly when moving about
- If you must go out or travel in the heat, try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm: walk in the shade where possible, apply sunscreen and wear a hat
Raise any issues with your line manager or supervisor, especially if you consider yourself or a colleague to be vulnerable to heat.