WorkSmarter Blog

News and updates from the team at WorkSmarter.

☀️ We’re Loving This Weather…

But Is Your Workplace Ready For The Heat?

Kathryn Webb
Kathryn Webb Worksmarter Team
Share:
We're heading into our third official heatwave of 2025, with temperatures soaring into the 30s. Great for the beach, a barbecue with friends, or a leisurely swim - but not so much for productivity.

This week's heat is expected to peak in the South East and parts of central England, lasting 4–5 days, with humid nights and sweltering afternoons. So what approach should managers take to keep their teams happy, healthy and on track?

What Does The Law Say?

There's no legal maximum temperature for UK workplaces, or obligation to relax uniform or dress code requirements during hot weather, but employers are required to maintain “reasonable” working conditions. 

That includes:

✔️ A duty of care to protect employee wellbeing—both in the workplace and for remote workers.

✔️ Conducting risk assessments for heat stress.

✔️ Providing drinking water and adequate breaks.

✔️ Considering adjustments to uniforms or dress codes.

💡Top Tips

  • Consider allowing flexible working hours to avoid peak heat times.

  • Offer remote working options where feasible.

  • Relax dress codes to enable cooler clothing options.

  • Make sure that staff working outside wear appropriate clothes and use sunscreen to protect from sunburn.

  • Ensure regular hydration by providing plenty of water throughout the day.

  • Improve ventilation with fans or air conditioning.

  • Public transport can be adversely affected during a heatwave, so encourage staff to check timetables in advance.
  • For those staff who work remotely, you could offer more flexibility to work in whichever environment they find most productive. 

  • Consider offering more frequent rest breaks for workers who may be more affected by the heat than others - for example pregnant women, those on medication or with disabilities.  

Need Help With HR and Employment Law Issues?

Our HR Partners work directly with SMEs like you, to provide expert guidance and advice. 

Get in touch for more information. 


Ready to WorkSmarter?

Join 9,000+ companies who are working smarter than ever before.

I'm ready, let's go

Easy Setup

Setup is really simple, and only takes a few minutes. You'll be guided through the process, step-by-step — and in no time at all you'll have your first employee added to your account.

We're Here to Help

If you need any assistance or have any questions, our friendly team will be happy to assist. Our comprehensive Help Centre is available too, with guides to all aspects of the platform.

Loved By Thousands of SMEs

WorkSmarter is loved by SMEs around the world. We're constantly innovating and releasing new features, with the aim of creating a delightful experience for users. Join thousands of other modern companies using WorkSmarter to grow their businesses.

Lots More Features Available

WorkSmarter provides a wide range of HR tools to help companies grow and manage their staff. Our upgraded plans unlock access to many more HR services, ready to help you grow your business.

Get started with WorkSmarter

Get Started in 60 Seconds

Register now, and you'll be up and running in no time.
Just fill out the fields below, and we'll set up your account.