Weather warning: guidance and information

The Met Office has issued a Red Weather Warning for ‘Extreme heat’ for Monday 18 and Tuesday 19 July 2022.

Working outdoors

High temperatures and intense sunlight pose a particular risk to those required to work outdoors, and additional risk control measures might be required to prevent acute issues such as heat stress and heat stroke, and longer-term health issues associated with prolonged exposure to intense UV light.

Last week we were in contact with departments who have staff that work outdoors regularly or are involved in outside events, in order to review their risk assessments and, where necessary, take measures to support staff.

Graduation

As you will know we have our graduation ceremonies taking place this week. The ceremonies will continue, and we have put measures in place to manage the heat as best we can. These include providing water for graduates and water stations for their guests. The Butterworth Hall, where the ceremonies are taking place, also has chiller units inside that will help the room to stay cool.

Events

Those departments organising events during this period will work with their contractors, event organisers and others to review and update any relevant risk assessments and Event Safety Management Plans to ensure the health and safety of contractor staff and visitors during this period.

Working indoors and travel

The University is already encouraging staff, where possible and with the agreement of your line manager, to work from home during July.

If it is essential for you to come onto campus for work, here is some useful information.

Estates colleagues have been checking and adjusting air handling and cooling to help keep indoor spaces as cool as is reasonably practicable. We are also making use of the guidance provided by bodies such as the Department of Health and Social Care, the Health and Safety Executive and the TUC.

Travel

The government has advised against all but essential travel during the weather warning. Travelling to work where work cannot be done from home is essential travel.

• Carry plenty of water with you when travelling
• Discuss adjusting shifts with your manager or supervisor, to avoid travelling in peak heat
• Try to lift share with others to avoid public transport wherever possible
• If you are driving to work, try to park in a shaded place wherever possible
• If you are cycling to work, try to keep moving at a reasonable (but safe) pace to feel the benefit of the cooling air as you move and avoid over exertion on hills

General tips

• Drink plenty of water (avoid caffeinated, carbonated or alcoholic drinks) using the water dispensers available
• Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes, and speak with your manager or supervisor about relaxing dress codes and uniform policies where possible
• If possible, work away from direct sunlight or sources of radiant heat
• If this is not possible, take regular breaks in cooler areas or buildings
• Use window blinds (if available) to cut down on the heating effects of the sun
• Use fans or other mechanisms to cool the air, as well as adequate ventilation
• Avoid physical exertion where possible especially during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm
• Try to move more slowly when moving about
• If you must go out or travel in the heat, try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm: walk in the shade where possible, apply sunscreen and wear a hat

Raise any issues with your line manager or supervisor, especially if you consider yourself or a colleague to be vulnerable to heat.