Heatwaves and Workplace Overheating – Preparing UK Facilities

Summer 2025 broke records across the UK, with many regions experiencing prolonged periods of high temperatures. While heatwaves are often associated with homes and outdoor spaces, industrial and commercial facilities face a unique set of challenges. Overheating in the workplace can reduce staff productivity, increase the risk of accidents, and even threaten the integrity of sensitive equipment or manufacturing processes.

Understanding the Risks

High internal temperatures in offices, factories, and leisure facilities can have a direct impact on both people and operations. Research shows that productivity can drop by as much as 10% at 24°C, and above this threshold, the likelihood of workplace accidents rises significantly. In addition, extreme heat can cause fatigue, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses, which can affect staff morale and attendance.

For businesses operating under regulated environments, these risks are not just operational but also legal. The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to maintain a comfortable working environment, including controlling temperature and providing adequate ventilation. Non-compliance can result in fines, reputational damage, and, most importantly, compromised staff safety.

Practical Cooling and Ventilation Solutions

Addressing overheating requires a combination of intelligent design, technology, and maintenance. Several solutions are particularly effective for industrial and commercial environments:

Evaporative Cooling Systems: These provide energy-efficient cooling for large spaces, reducing temperature without the high energy demand of traditional air conditioning.
Extract Fans and Roof Extractor Units: By removing hot, stale air, these systems improve airflow and maintain consistent conditions across production lines or open-plan spaces.
Balanced Ventilation Design: Ensuring even distribution of air helps prevent hotspots and keeps both staff and equipment within safe operating limits.
Smart Controls: Modern systems can adjust fan speeds or cooling output based on temperature sensors, ensuring comfort without unnecessary energy use.

At the same time, it’s worth noting that one size doesn’t fit all. The right mix of AC, ventilation, and evaporative cooling depends on building type, usage, and comfort requirements. But the trend is clear: energy efficiency is no longer optional.

Retrofitting Older Facilities

Many existing buildings were not designed with modern heat challenges in mind. Retrofitting older facilities with upgraded ventilation and cooling can prevent heat-related disruptions. Solutions can include adding evaporative coolers, integrating extract fans, or redesigning airflow patterns to improve circulation. Even small upgrades, such as installing ceiling fans or improving natural ventilation, can make a meaningful difference during heatwaves.

Looking Ahead

As climate patterns continue to shift, heatwaves in the UK are expected to become more frequent and intense. Businesses that proactively address overheating now will not only protect staff and maintain productivity but also reduce energy costs and improve overall operational resilience. A strategic approach combining compliance, efficiency, and smart system design is key.

By investing in proper cooling and ventilation solutions, commercial and industrial facilities can ensure a safe, productive, and comfortable working environment — even when the mercury rises.

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