Preparing your business for the heat

By Tim Weymouth, Associate Director, ACII, AloL

As the days grow longer and the sun starts to warm us up, it’s high time we looked forward to the arrival of summer – a season synonymous with outdoor activities, holidays, and a sense of relaxation. But it's also crucial for businesses to recognise that summer brings its own set of challenges and risks. 

While winter preparations may be ingrained in our routines, overlooking the potential hazards of summer can leave businesses vulnerable to unforeseen consequences. So, what are the specific considerations that you need to think about ahead of summer? 

Thanks to a well-known tv series, you’ll no doubt be familiar with the phrase “winter is coming”. While we may not be under threat from the undead, there are preparations businesses undertake for the colder months as a matter of course. Companies commonly arrange flu vaccinations for employees or install warning systems for icy conditions, for example. Schools even have policies for closing during severe winter weather. Yet, how frequently do we anticipate and prepare for the specific challenges of summer from a risk management perspective?

As an example, a construction manager in Australia explained to me how he had to account for heat-related work stoppages during the summer months. While an Australian summer might be different from the UK's, the risk posed by sun and heat is very real.

Did you know, the risk posed by the sun and heat can lead to insurance claims?

If your employees spend significant time outdoors, ensuring appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as providing SPF cream, setting up shade covers for employees to work under, and providing water bottles is crucial. Training employees on the proper use of additional equipment and obtaining their confirmation of understanding is essential. Implementing a reward system for compliance and disciplinary measures for non-compliance can reinforce safety protocols. Additionally, if a business, such as fruit farms, employs seasonal workers from abroad, language barriers may require additional translated training materials to ensure comprehension and compliance.

Beyond human risks and considerations, summer poses challenges for stock – especially perishable food and drink goods transported in temperature-controlled vehicles. Insurance coverage for spoilage due to mechanical failures is available and should be considered for businesses reliant on temperature-sensitive products.

For businesses with fleets, ensuring vehicles are summer-ready is as important as winter preparations. Checks for vehicle damage from winter months should be conducted, and measures like providing air conditioning, sunglasses, and emergency kits for drivers can mitigate risks associated with summer driving conditions.

These are just a few examples of summer risks to consider. At Howden, we're here to discuss the challenges your business may face at all points during the year. And after enduring one of the wettest winters in recent memory, a long, hot summer may well be on the horizon – if recent years are anything to go by. So, let’s keep our cool and ensure it’s one that is fully risk managed!