Beating the heat - Staying cool, safe and productive this summer

This article was written by our partners at Vita Health

It’s that time of year again when the fans come down from the loft, and we regret not buying an air conditioner in the winter sales. With summer now in full swing, and heatwaves rolling around, the heat can do more than make us feel hot and bothered - it can also affect our concentration, mood and productivity at work.

Whether you’re in the office, working from home, or out on-site, hot weather can bring further challenges to your daily routine. For those based in older buildings or outdoor environments, high temperatures can lead to fatigue and lower motivation. Even in airconditioned spaces, the shift in season can have an impact on our wellbeing. By taking simple steps to stay cool and comfortable, we can support better focus, stronger performance and a more positive mindset throughout the summer.

How the hot weather impacts us at work

High temperatures can slow down our thinking, reduce our attention to detail, and leave us feeling tired or irritable. Even mild dehydration - very common in the summer - can lead to headaches,
muscle cramps and fatigue.

Additionally, our environment plays a big part in how we feel, as well as how we work. In warmer conditions, people often experience shorter tempers, sluggishness, and poorer motivation.
Taking the steps to make your working environment comfortable (whether you’re in the office or working from home), is the best way to reduce the impact of heat on your wellbeing.