Acas issues hot‑weather workplace guidance for UK employers

Acas, the UK workplace advisory body, has released recommendations to help employers manage the challenges posed by a heatwave. Chief executive Niall Mackenzie noted that the Met Office issued an extreme‑heat warning, which could affect workers’ comfort, health and commuting. While there is no legal maximum temperature, the Health & Safety Executive advises that indoor workplaces must maintain reasonable conditions and offers a thermal‑comfort risk‑assessment guide.

Key advice includes using fans or air‑conditioning, shading windows, providing ample drinking water, allowing extra breaks for hydration, and, where feasible, relaxing dress‑code requirements. Employers should also consider vulnerable staff with health conditions or disabilities, offering adjustments such as portable cooling units or longer rest periods. Finally, Acas urges flexibility around public‑transport disruptions that may affect punctuality.

The guidance underscores employers’ duty of care to ensure reasonable temperatures both on site and when staff work from home.