The UK’s current heatwave
As the UK faces a Severe High Temperature Warning across regions, including the East Midlands, East of England, London & South East England, North West England, South West England, Wales, West Midlands, and Yorkshire & Humber, temperatures are expected to reach around 30–34°C in some areas, placing significant strain on everyone, including hospitality workers.
Working in hospitality during a heatwave
For chefs, kitchen staff, bar teams, and front-of-house workers, heat exposure can quickly become intense. Hot kitchens, poor ventilation, and long shifts during busy service periods increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and fatigue, particularly when combined with fast-paced working conditions.
While many people enjoy the sunshine, hospitality staff are often working at peak intensity during the hottest part of the day. It is essential to stay hydrated, take regular breaks where possible, and ensure access to cooler areas during shifts.
Employers’ responsibilities in a heatwave
If you’re an employer in the hospitality industry, prioritising worker safety during periods of extreme heat is essential. This means ensuring kitchens and service areas are properly ventilated, using fans or extraction systems effectively, and, where possible, adjusting layouts or workflows to reduce heat build-up in confined spaces. Staff rotation should also be actively managed so no one is exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods, especially during peak service hours when kitchens are at their hottest.
Consistent access to drinking water should be non-negotiable, with staff encouraged to hydrate regularly rather than only during breaks. Providing scheduled rest periods in cooler areas can also help reduce the risk of fatigue, dehydration, and heat-related illness.
Working Safely during a heatwave
Even in summer, safety in the workplace is key, protecting hospitality workers not only supports their wellbeing but also helps maintain consistent service standards, reduces staff absence, and ensures businesses can continue operating smoothly during busy seasonal periods.
If you’re working during this heatwave, stay hydrated, take regular breaks where possible, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion such as dizziness or fatigue. Step out of the heat if you start to feel unwell and tell your management team.
If you’re an employer or manager in hospitality, check in on your staff, manage workloads fairly, and make sure everyone has access to water and cooler rest areas. Looking out for your team keeps everyone safer and service running smoothly.