As you may be aware, extreme hot temperatures are forecast for the start of next week. As there are no legal maximum working temperatures, it’s down to employers to assess the risk of extreme hot weather in relation to the work activity and its staff.

We strongly encourage staff to follow any government guidance about limiting travel unless essential and to consider working from home (if possible) if that presents a cooler and/or better air-conditioned option during this period.

Managers must consider the welfare of their staff and in particular any medical/health condition which may make them more vulnerable to the heat, including pregnancy. Hot weather guidance is available on the Health & Safety pages of Sussex Direct.

For staff that need to be on campus during this period, please consider:

• varying working hours, with shorter periods of work to avoid the hottest parts of the day
• actively planning and encouraging very regular water breaks during the day, ensuring access to a supply of water
• postponing strenuous activities unless an emergency
• keeping curtains or blinds closed through the day as this helps to keep the room cool
• continuously reviewing work conditions and assessing staff welfare, throughout the day.  

Arrangements have also been made by SEF to support their staff during this period of extreme hot weather.