Beat the Heat: Managing Summer Health and Safety Risks

From scorching temperatures to increased sun exposure, it's crucial to prioritise health and safety risk management and ensure the well-being of employees. In this article, the Gallagher Risk Management team outlines some of the key summer health and safety risks and explains how to effectively manage them.

Did you know…

Global businesses have identified health and safety risk as their top priority, ahead of cyber-attacks, data loss and regulatory breaches, according to a survey by Clyde & Co.

Heat-related illnesses

The summer sun can bring soaring temperatures, posing a significant risk of heat-related illnesses. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are common conditions that can result from prolonged exposure to high temperatures. To mitigate these risks, organisations should provide adequate shade and rest breaks, encourage hydration, and educate employees on recognising the signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Additionally, implementing a heat stress management plan that includes monitoring weather conditions and adjusting work schedules accordingly would also be beneficial.

Did you know…

Some of the key symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke include dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, and confusion.

Sun exposure and skin cancer

Outdoor workers face significant risks during the summer months, as prolonged exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation can lead to the development of skin cancer. The construction and agriculture industries, known for their outdoor work, are particularly at risk; however, all organisations, regardless of sector, should take this risk extremely seriously.

Did you know…

Skin cancer remains the most prevalent cancer in the UK, with rates steadily increasing. Over 100,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, resulting in more than 2,500 deaths each year - equating to seven fatalities daily.

To combat this risk, organisations should encourage employees to use sunscreen with a high Sun Protection Factor (SPF), wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours. They should regularly remind workers about the importance of skin protection and provide training on the early detection of skin cancer symptoms. Additionally, organisations should consider providing wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses as part of the company's personal protective equipment (PPE).

Hydration and dehydration

Staying hydrated is crucial during hot summer days to prevent fatigue, dizziness, and heat-related illnesses. Organisations should encourage employees to drink plenty of water throughout the day and provide access to clean drinking water on-site. They should educate workers on the signs of dehydration and the importance of maintaining proper hydration levels. Additionally, organisations should consider implementing a buddy system to promote regular hydration checks and support each other's well-being.

Outdoor work hazards

For industries involving outdoor work, organisations should be aware of additional hazards that can emerge during the summer months. These include falls from elevated structures, accidents involving moving vehicles, and collisions with flying or falling objects. To mitigate these risks effectively, organisations should conduct thorough risk assessments, implement appropriate safety measures, and provide necessary PPE. They should also ensure that workers are trained in proper equipment usage and adhere to established safety protocols.

Did you know…

The three most common causes of fatal injuries are falls from height (40), being struck by a moving object (29), and being struck by a moving vehicle (20).

Overheating equipment and fire risk

As the summer heat intensifies, the risk of overheating equipment and electrical fires becomes a pressing concern in both office spaces and homes. Overheating can reduce performance, cause system failures, and permanently damage electronic devices, as well as increase the risk of fire. To mitigate these risks, simple measures can be implemented, including ensuring proper ventilation by keeping air vents clear and unobstructed, regularly cleaning dust and debris from equipment to maintain airflow, and using cooling pads or fans (especially for laptops). Furthermore, avoid placing equipment near direct sunlight or other heat sources, and regularly monitor temperatures, with the option to invest in temperature monitoring devices if necessary. Additionally, to reduce fire risk, organisations should check electrical connections and cords for wear and damage and ensure that fire extinguishers and alarms are readily accessible and functional.

Closing thoughts

As summer unfolds, organisations must prioritise risk management to ensure employee health and safety. Addressing heat-related illnesses, sun exposure, outdoor work hazards, hydration, overheating, and fire risks is crucial for a safer and healthier work environment.

Get in touch with Gallagher

From simple phone-based advice to bespoke consultancy, packaged services, and training, we can provide health and safety risk management services that could make a real difference to your organisation, no matter the season. We do this in a way which links your legal obligations to your insurers’ expectations – affordably, accurately, and sustainably.

To get in touch with our friendly risk management team about any of the content in this article, or how we can help you with your health and safety requirements, please call 0800 138 7538 or connect with an expert here .