Working During A Heat Wave
The UK’s recent spell of extreme heat is creating serious challenges across rail infrastructure, construction sites, and office environments alike. Temperatures have already broken May records, with parts of the country exceeding 34°C, conditions more commonly associated with southern Europe than Britain.
For rail and construction workers operating trackside, wearing full PPE, working around heavy machinery, or carrying out physically demanding tasks outdoors, the risks associated with extreme heat are becoming impossible to ignore. And while office teams may be indoors, poor ventilation and rising indoor temperatures can also impact wellbeing, concentration, and productivity.
At Fusion People, we work closely with professionals across the rail, engineering, construction, and support sectors every day, and we understand the importance of protecting both productivity and wellbeing during periods of extreme weather.
Why Heat Safety Matters
The latest report from the Climate Change Committee (CCC) warns that the “British way of life” is increasingly under threat from extreme heat, flooding, and drought. The report highlights that by 2050:
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- Water shortages and infrastructure disruption could significantly impact daily life and work environments
Importantly for employers, the CCC has also called for a national maximum workplace temperature to help better protect workers during dangerous heat conditions.
For industries such as rail and construction, where safety, concentration, and physical performance are crucial, adapting to these changing conditions is now essential.
Heat Safety Tips for Rail & Construction Workers
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
One of the biggest mistakes workers make during hot weather is waiting until they feel thirsty. By that point, dehydration may already be setting in.
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- Drink water regularly throughout your shift
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- Avoid excessive caffeine and energy drinks
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- Use electrolyte drinks when working long hours outdoors
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- Encourage teams to remind each other to hydrate
Supervisors should ensure easy access to drinking water on-site at all times. You can find more on safety advice here: Safety-Advice-NRA22-03-Hot-weather.pdf
Take Regular Breaks
Working continuously in direct sunlight or high temperatures puts strain on the body.
Where possible:
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- Rotate physically demanding tasks
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- Use shaded welfare areas
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- Schedule more frequent breaks
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- Avoid peak heat hours for intensive work where practical
Fatigue caused by heat can reduce reaction times and decision-making, something especially critical in rail and safety-sensitive environments.
Wear Suitable PPE Correctly
PPE remains essential, but heat can make it uncomfortable.
Workers should:
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- Wear lightweight, breathable underlayers where permitted
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- Use sun protection on exposed skin
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- Wear UV-protective eyewear when required
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- Report any PPE-related heat concerns to supervisors
Managers should also review whether task-specific PPE remains suitable during extreme weather conditions.
Recognise the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Everyone on-site should know the warning signs, including:
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- Dizziness
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- Excessive sweating
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- Headaches
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- Muscle cramps
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- Nausea
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- Confusion or disorientation
Office Teams Need Protection Too
While site workers often face the harshest conditions, office staff can also struggle during heatwaves.
Simple measures can make a big difference:
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- Keep hydrated during the working day
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- Use blinds or shading to reduce indoor temperatures
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- Take short movement breaks away from screens
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- Allow flexible working arrangements where possible
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- Ensure air circulation and ventilation are adequate
Heat impacts concentration and productivity in office environments just as much as physical performance outdoors.
Final Thoughts
Extreme weather events are becoming more common across the UK, making heat management an increasingly important part of workforce planning.
At Fusion People, we continue to support rail, construction, engineering, and infrastructure teams across the UK with skilled professionals and workforce solutions tailored to demanding environments.
Whether you’re working trackside, managing a construction project, or supporting operations from the office, staying safe during extreme heat should remain a top priority.
Looking after your people is not just about compliance; it’s about creating safer, healthier, and more productive workplaces for everyone.
Stay hydrated, stay aware, and look out for your team.