DS Risk Warning: Weather: Heat

 Hello all,

We've been waiting to see if there was yet another update to the Amber warning. At the time of sending this the position is as follows:

Exceptional heat is possible for southern and central areas of the UK late this weekend and early next week, with temperatures likely in excess of 35°C in some places.

An Amber Extreme heat warning, which is an impact-based warning designed to highlight impacts to protect lives, property and infrastructure, has been issued for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.

The first Red warning area does not affect our operational area

Temperatures are likely to peak in excess of 35°C in southern, central and eastern areas of England, and more widely around 32°C within the warning area. Tuesday currently looks to see the peak of this heat, although exceptional warmth is likely throughout the warning period.  

Temperatures are also set to remain high overnight, particularly in urban areas, with a high likelihood of tropical nights – when minimum temperatures don’t drop below 20°C – for some early next week.  

The step up in warning level to red is running parallel to an increase in the current Heat Health Warning to Level 4 for England by the UK Health Security Agency.  which is aimed at those specifically in the health and social care sector, has also been issued by the from Saturday to Tuesday, advising people to look out for vulnerable people and those with underlying health conditions. 

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/heat-health-alert-issued-by-the-uk-health-security-agency

Heatwave criteria, when specific temperature thresholds must be exceeded three days running, had already been met in some locations earlier this week, and are expected to be met again by early next week.

Key advice being given is:

* it is important to keep yourself hydrated, (avoiding alcohol) and to find shade where possible when UV rays are strongest, between 11am and 3pm.

* if you have vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, make sure they are aware of how they can keep themselves protected from the warm weather. 

* think carefully about water usage.

* find out more about driving in hot weather with National Highways.  

https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-roads/south-east-news/hot-weather/

* stay cool indoors: Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.

* if going outdoors, use cool spaces considerately.  

* never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.

* Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, etc. if you have to go out in the heat.

* avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.

* make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling. 

At present there isn't a higher level of warning during the period relating to air quality.

As previously advised, do dynamically assess those intended activities. We've had questions on sports days, hall based performances and beach trips so far. Remember you aren't likely to win, as your audience will inevitably have those who have opinions at either end of the spectrum as to what's right. We need to be balanced and proportionate. 

The HSE say:

Temperature in the workplace: working safely in hot conditions

In offices or similar environments, the temperature in workplaces must be reasonable. There's no law for maximum working temperature, or when it's too hot to work.   Employers must stick to health and safety at work law, including: keeping the temperature at a comfortable level, sometimes known as thermal comfort providing clean and fresh air Read about what you can do to feel more comfortable.   HSE's temperature website has practical guidance on what you can do to manage the risks, including: factors that can lead to heat stress, and how to reduce the risk of it occurring managing outdoor working environments We also have the answers to some frequently asked questions about temperature in the workplace.

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Do get in touch if we can help?

Bill