In June 2023, the HSE issues a hot weather warming to employers due to a yellow heat-warning from by the Met Office. As part of this warning, HSE advised that employers have a responsibility to protect employees. This applies to employees working indoors and/or outdoors.

Due to rising temperatures, heat exposure during UK summertime is becoming more of an issue for workers across the country. In 2021, six million2 potential labour hours were lost to heat exposure. Perhaps not surprisingly, the greatest loss of hours was seen amongst those who spend a lot of time working outdoors, including agricultural and construction workers.

 The fact that so many working hours are lost due to heat exposure suggests that employees are not wearing suitable PPE. Providing your employees with the correct workwear for all weather will help keep them safe during the summer months.  

>Wear suitable workwear
Look for PPE that is breathable while still providing necessary protection.
>Adapt to your environment
Open windows when indoor for fresh air. Wear sun cream when outdoors.
>Don't forget water
It's important to stay hydrated in hot weather. You should also take regular breaks.

Workwear laundry services provide Wearing the wrong type of workwear in hot weather can lead to heat stress. This may leave employees feeling weak, unable to concentrate, and in extreme cases even lead to heatstroke.

 Heat stress happens when the body’s internal temperature controls start to fail. In the workplace this can be caused by several factors, including air temperature and unsuitable PPE.

 If your workplace requires employees to wear PPE, then risk assessments and safe-practises of work should be reviewed seasonally to ensure relevant guidance and clothing is being provided.

 A proactive approach to seasonal workwear will ensure you are prepared for any weather. 

To reduce the risks of heat stress, HSE recommends you provide specialised PPE. It’s also important to ensure workwear is maintained to a high standard. With a managed workwear and laundry solution from phs Besafe you can ensure that your employees always have the workwear they need. 

Jackets can be unnecessary and restrictive in warmer weather. The Bright Gear long sleeve polo shirt is a great alternative when employees would still like their arms covered, as it is made from a lightweight and breathable fabric. This allows the polo shirt to protect from sun exposure in outdoor workplaces.  

>Short sleeve polo shirt

The Bright Gear short sleeve polo shirt is ideal workwear for hot weather. It is ideal great for use in environments where arm movement and flexibility is important. It is a popular choice for indoor environments where sun exposure is not an issue.