Working Environments

When working outdoors the effects of the weather in this environment can potentially have a very serious impact on an employees welfare if the risks have never been previously considered or managed properly.  This impact maybe immediate or it may occur over a long time period.

For example, exposure to the sun can cause skin damage including sunburn, blistering and skin ageing and in the long term can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer.  Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the western world with many new cases every year. People can avoid unnecessary exposure by such means as: Wearing long sleeve shirts or loose clothing with a close weave Wearing hats with a wide brim More frequent rest breaks Taking breaks in the shade whenever possible Scheduling work to cooler times of the day If possible, provide shade where work tasks are being undertaken. Sun protection is important and people need to realise that sunburnt skin is damaged skin.  A suntan is not a sign of good health.

When working indoors:

• During working hours, the temperature in rooms containing workstations is appropriate for human beings, having regard to the working methods being used and the physical demands placed on the employees.
• For sedentary office work, a minimum temperature of 17.5 °C , so far as is reasonably practicable, is achieved and maintained at every workstation after the first hour’s work.
• For other sedentary work, at every workstation where a substantial proportion of the work done sitting and does not involve serious physical effort, a minimum temperature of 16°C is, so far as is reasonably practicable, achieved and maintained after the first hours work
• Means are available to enable persons at work to measure the temperature in any workplace inside a building.
• The temperature in rest areas, rooms for duty staff, sanitary facilities, canteens and first aid rooms is appropriate to the particular purpose of such areas.
• In relation to windows, skylights and glass partitions, excessive effects of sunlight are avoided in places of work, having regard to the nature of the work and the characteristics of the place

The temperature shall be a dry bulb temperature taken at the working position of the employee at 1.1 m above the floor surface.  Where due to process requirements, a workplace temperature below 16°C is necessary the employer shall assess the risks and take any necessary measures to ensure the safety health and welfare of the employees.

The Safety Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, part 2, Chapter 1-Workplace lays down particular requirements for most aspects of the working environment.  Paragraph 7 of these Regulations deals specifically.