Summers in the UK have been getting hotter and hotter, making working in the office and at home tougher than usual. In 2022, temperature records were being broken all over the world but the Met Office forecasts that the weather in 2023 is set to be our hottest yet. With warmer temperatures becoming the norm, we need to start adjusting to working efficiently in the heat.
Even if you’re not directly working outdoors or in a hot indoor space, there is plenty to worry about on hot days, ranging from heat exhaustion and fatigue to disorientation from sun glare obstructing your screen. We’ve put together some top tips for productive working in the summer weather so you’re prepared for the next heatwave.
Stay hydrated
One of the primary health risks of hot weather is dehydration, which can become a serious problem if left untreated. The best way to prevent it is to stay hydrated throughout the day. The NHS recommends drinking plenty of fluids at regular intervals throughout work, preferably six to eight glasses per day.
Take frequent breaks
You’re likely to become more lethargic and disorientated in warmer weather so it’s essential that you take frequent breaks. Taking yourself away from your workspace can make the rest of the day more bearable and actually increase your productivity. You can take these breaks as an opportunity to grab a glass of water or take advantage of a room with aircon to cool yourself down.
Use fans and air conditioning
When temperatures rise, air conditioning is your best friend. You’ll want to stick close by to aircon units to make the most of their cooling effects. These are most common in office buildings, and you may not have access to one when working remotely or outside. If this is the case, you can stay cool with portable fans, and better yet, you can angle them to keep you cool wherever you’re working.
Take time to acclimatise
Your body should slowly build up a tolerance to the heat the longer you work in it. The best way to acclimatise is to initially limit your workload and then gradually build it up day by day. This is advised to be done throughout one to two weeks to prevent exhaustion or burnout on your part.
Dress light
Your clothing can massively mitigate how intensely you feel the heat. Wearing lightweight and light-coloured clothing can keep you from overheating as quickly, especially if you need to wear safety equipment. Depending on your profession and if it’s safe to do so, consider wearing shorts, hats, and long skirts and dresses in breathable materials.