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Keeping your cool

With predicted temperatures set to soar over the summer months, daily life in the workplace can prove a little challenging. Don’t get hot under the collar, just follow our simple tips to keep it cool at work.

• Desk and pedestal fans can help circulate air and make you feel cooler even in an air-conditioned office.
• Use power-saving features and turn off all non-essential electronic equipment such as monitors, printers and photocopiers. Technology equipment can generate significant amounts of heat.
• Remember to drink plenty of fluid throughout the day. It’s important to drink regularly even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you’re out and about don’t forget to take a bottle of mineral water with you.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing if possible, preferably of a light colour.
• If you’re working outside, or taking a stroll at lunch, remember to apply sunscreen. Always choose sun cream with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15.
• Hot drinks may cool you down more effectively than cold ones. Why not try a fairtrade herbal tea instead of your normal cuppa?
• Keep blinds closed in offices that get a lot of direct sun.
• If your organisation allows you to work flexi-time, why not vary your hours so you avoid the hottest points of the day.
• Avoid heavy lunches. Try and include fruit and salad in your diet; this will help keep you hydrated.
• Remember you can always use your umbrella as a substitute parasol and keep in the shade. You can even promote your organisation at the same time with one from ProcureTeam!

Staying safe
London ambulance service recently reported a 20% rise in emergency incidents, triggered by the hot weather. There was a marked increase in cases involving breathing problems, chest pains and fainting. A few simple precautions can help minimise the risks associated with hot weather.

• There’s no legal maximum temperature for the workplace set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) although between 16 C (56°F) and 30°C (86°F) is defined as ‘reasonable’. If temperatures rise above that consult with your manager or HSE representative.
• If you are affected by asthma or other respiratory conditions always carry your prescribed reliever medication, and if you suffer from hayfever carry anti-histamine.
• Stay out of the sun if possible between 11am – 3pm.
• Heat exhaustion can happen to anyone in hot weather, and can lead to heatstroke, which can be dangerous and even fatal. If you, or anyone else, feel sick or dizzy stay out of the sun and drink plenty of water. If symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, dizziness, weakness or cramps get worse or don't go away, seek medical advice.
• Hot weather can be particularly dangerous for the elderly, so if the temperature rises keep an eye out for any older or vulnerable neighbours. Why not check on them on your way home from work?