With this week’s mini heatwave, the digital staffing platform Coople has put together tips on how to keep employees comfortable in the heat, as well as some suggestions on how businesses could benefit from support from flexible staffing during hot weather. The tips can be seen below, along with a comment from Rufus Hood, Country Manager UK at Coople.

During a heatwave, it’s important to keep an eye on your premises’ temperature. Some employees might also be at an increased risk of heat exhaustion, including those who are pregnant, elderly, living with certain health conditions or taking certain medications. Some measures that can be taken to help keep your staff comfortable include making sure they can easily access cold drinks and being more flexible with your dress code if possible.

HR departments and managers could also consider allowing greater flexibility around working hours during a heatwave. It could help staff who rely on public transport which may be affected by unusually hot weather. Of course, this might not always be possible, as some companies will need to keep staff levels consistent. However, when staff are working outside, it is very important that they take more breaks, and work for shorter periods, during a heatwave.

Rufus Hood, Country Manager UK at Coople, comments:

“During a heatwave, there are several things that companies can do to make their staff more comfortable, whether they are working indoors or outdoors. If your workplace is inside, make sure the space is well ventilated - outside, while you can’t control the temperature, you can ensure that staff have access to plenty of water."

“Businesses should be aware that if the hot weather affects public transport, the number of staff who are able to come in might drop. Local workers who are able to provide flexible or temporary support might be able to help support your permanent team, if staff need to be present onsite in order for work to continue. They can also help meet any increased demand your business might experience during the heat.”

There are numerous ways that flexible staffing could help support businesses during a heatwave.

• In the heat, businesses might experience staffing shortages, with employees either unable to work because they are affected by the heat themselves, or because they need to take time off to care for family members. Flexible or temporary staff can fill the gap, ensuring that essential services and business operations continue smoothly.

• Flexible workers could be used to extend operational hours, allowing for earlier starts or later finishes to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

• Some businesses might experience a surge in demand due to the heat, such as air conditioning repair services, or beverage and ice cream vendors – they can access support from flexible and temporary workers to meet this increased demand and reduce pressure on their team during busy periods.

• Vulnerable populations like elderly people or those experiencing homelessness might need additional assistance during a heatwave. Businesses and organisations who engage in community outreach could use flexible workers to support these initiatives, meaning they are able to carry out more welfare checks and help more of these individuals.