While the rising temperatures are a welcome sight they present their own set of challenges. There are a number of things that we can all do to help stay cool at work while we enjoy the weather.

Help keep your work area cool

Make sure all heating is turned off. Open windows to allow air to circulate. Open doors where it's safe. This will help the air circulate, but remember to close any fire doors before you leave an area empty; open doors will also help fire and smoke circulate. Putting your blinds down with the blind slats facing upwards will help keep the temperature down. Turn off all unnecessary electrical equipment, even when it's not being used it will just generate heat. Don't rely solely on electric fans, they can generate their own heat too and can circulate warm air.

Report any faults

Faulty equipment can generate more heat than usual.

Stay hydrated

It's important to drink water regularly throughout the day. Don't wait until you're thirsty, this is a sign you're already dehydrated. Avoid high amounts of caffeine or drinks high in sugar.

Dress for the weather

Wear layers of thinner, loose fitting clothing rather than one thick garment. Removing and replacing layers will make it easier to adjust to conditions and help you to keep cool.

Working outdoors?

Make sure you stay hydrated and dress appropriately. Keep your skin covered wherever possible and use appropriate sunscreen where it's not possible. Organise tasks so regular changes of activity and regular rest breaks are possible. Take breaks in a cool area out of direct sunlight wherever possible.

Keep an eye on colleagues

Some may be more sensitive to the effects of heat than others. Look for the signs of heat exhaustion:

• intense thirst
• headache
• dizziness and confusion
• loss of appetite and feeling sick
• pale, clammy skin
• cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
• fast breathing or pulse

Heat exhaustion is not serious. It usually gets better when you cool down. If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion:

• Contact a First Aider
• Move them to a cool place
• Get them to lie down and raise their feet slightly
• Get them to drink plenty of water
• Cool their skin – spray or sponge them with cool water and fan them

Stay with them until they are better. They should start to cool down and feel better within 30 minutes.

If the person:

• is no better after 30 minutes
• feels hot and dry
• is not sweating even though they are too hot
• has rapid or shortness of breath
• is confused
• has a fit (seizure)
• loses consciousness
• is unresponsive

Call 999 - These can be signs of heat stroke.

Keep numbers down

Managers can encourage employees to work from home wherever practical and possible.