This checklist will help you carry out a basic risk assessment of workplace temperatures.
If you answer ‘yes’ to at least two of these questions you should assess the risks[1] and find out how you can protect your workers.
What your workers think
- Have your workers complained about temperatures in your workplace?
Air temperature
- Does the air feel warm or hot?
- Does the workplace temperature change during a normal working day?
- Does the workplace temperature change a lot during hot or cold weather?
Radiant temperature
- Is there a heat source in the environment, for example machinery?
- Is there any equipment that produces steam?
- Is work being done outdoors?
Humidity
- Are your workers wearing personal protective equipment that allows air to flow through?
- Do your workers complain that the air is too dry?
- Do your workers complain that the air is humid?
Air movement
- Is cold or warm air blowing directly into the workspace?
- Are employees complaining of draughts?
Workers’ metabolic rate
- Is work rate moderate to intensive in warm or hot conditions?
- Are workers mainly seated in cool or cold environments?
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Is PPE being worn that protects against harmful toxins, chemicals, asbestos, flames, extreme heat etc?
- Can workers make changes to their clothing in response to high or low temperatures?
- Is respiratory protection being worn?