Working in a heatwave: UK bosses urged to allow flexible working as hot temperatures in London rocket

The TUC is calling on employers to allow flexible working and to keep workplaces cool during the heatwave
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A union is urging bosses to let staff change their hours or work from home after forecasters predicted temperatures could hit 40C.

The TUC is calling on employers to allow flexible working and to keep workplaces cool during the heatwave.

They said bosses can also help workers by relaxing dress codes, allowing frequent breaks and listening to suggestions from staff about how to cope with the heat.

The union warned that hot workplaces could lead to loss of concentration, an increase in the likelihood of accidents and medical issues including fainting.

There is no law for maximum working temperatures, but the temperature in indoor workplaces must be “reasonable.”

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The TUC is calling for a new maximum indoor temperature of 30C, with employers having to introduce cooling measures at 24C.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: “While many of us love to see the sun, it’s no fun working in a baking office or a stifling factory. Bosses should do all they can to keep the temperature down.

“The easiest way for staff to keep cool inside is being able to work in more casual clothing. While shorts and vest tops may not be appropriate for all, nobody should be made to suffer in the heat for the sake of keeping up appearances.

“It's in bosses’ interests to provide a cool and comfortable work environment. Workers who are unable to dress down in lighter clothing, or who work in offices without air-conditioning, fans or drinking water, are going to be tired, and lack inspiration and creativity.”

Mike Cherry, national chairman at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “The hot weather can have an impact on some firms, with staff unable to get into work.

“Employers should try to accommodate for their staff by bringing in air conditioning or fans.

“On top of this, it is helpful to allow employees to travel to and from work at cooler times or allow staff to work from home.”

Rachel Suff, senior employment relations adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, said: “While there’s no specific maximum temperature for workplaces in the UK, employers need to make sure the temperature is reasonable. Where possible, employers should allow people to work from home in very hot weather.

“They should also put plans in place to maximise their comfort so they can get on with their jobs.

“Employers should be mindful of people with a disability or health condition as the heat can make them particularly vulnerable.”

Ms Suff said the body’s 2018 research found 70 per cent of workers were tempted to call in sick in hot weather.

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