This week the Met Office has issued its first ever red warning for heat with temperatures expected to climb to between 38C and 40C in some parts of the country.
Whilst there is no law for minimum or maximum working temperatures, extreme temperatures are a potential hazard that employers must address, carry out a risk assessment and take actions accordingly.
When working on roofs in hot weather make sure you follow these steps to stay safe:
🌡️ Reschedule work to cooler times of the day;
⏰ Provide more frequent rest breaks and introduce shading to rest areas;
😎 Provide sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30;
💧 Provide free access to cool drinking water;
☁️ If possible, introduce shading where individuals are working;
👍 Encourage the removal of PPE when taking breaks to aid heat loss; and
🥵 Educate workers about recognising the early symptoms of heat stress.