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Employers Should Offer Flexible Working During Hot Weather Says CIPD

Employers Should Offer Flexible Working During Hot Weather Says CIPD
01 July 2024
 

The Head of Public Policy at The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development is urging employers to explore flexible working arrangements where possible during hot weather.

Some of the UK’s building stock, particularly older buildings, feel the impact of the heatwave more than others, creating an uncomfortable working environment. This summer, The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) wants bosses to consider putting extra measures in place to protect employee wellbeing.

2022 was the sixth-warmest year on record based on data from The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 2022 also saw Britain experience its first Red extreme heat national severe weather warning. Ben Willmott, Head of Public Policy at the CIPD, wants companies to be flexible about working hours and conditions during heatwaves, particularly those with a disability or health condition, or those in safety-critical roles like drivers and construction:

“Where possible, employers should offer flexible working options in terms of where and when their staff work. Working from home may allow employees to be more comfortable and productive. Where roles can't be done from home, employers should explore other forms of flexibility. For example, flexibility in start and finish times to avoid the peak hour commute, which can be particularly challenging or disrupted in hot conditions.

“There’s no specific legal maximum temperature for workplaces in the UK, but employers should take steps to try and ensure the temperature is reasonable.

“Businesses should put measures in place to maximise employee comfort, so they can get on with their jobs. These can include providing fans if there’s no air conditioning, easy access to cold drinking water and relaxing strict uniform dress codes.”

Picture: a photograph of a person holding a cold plastic bottle of water. The person has a floral tattoo on their hand. Image Credit: Unsplash

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 01 July 2024

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