How The Environment Impacts On Employees and the Work Place.
In 2015 it was estimated 90% of Brits had talked about the weather in the previous six hours. With more increased understanding of climate change and its effects weather conversations have become more serious in nature. In 2022 we had the highest temperature ever recorded in the United Kingdom.
The Met Office is already predicting that 2023 will be hotter than 2022, also February 2023 was the driest in 30 years.
So, what does this mean for you as an employer?
During periods of excess temperature, the Incidence of heat related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat stress and heat exhaustion, is likely to increase. High pollen counts make hay fever more prevalent and other respiratory illnesses may occur. On a more benign level heat induced lethargy and irritation are potential issues.
To address these human issues the caring employer could consider the following: -
Protective or preventative measures such as restricting heat exposure
Ensuring adequate ventilation.
Requiring curtains or drapes to be drawn during the day
Hydration breaks
Have a plan in the event of excess temperatures and train employees to recognize
heat hazards.
Monitor heat-related conditions at work sites.
Employers need to be aware of other impacts of environmental changes. Whilst its generally accepted that 75% of the population worry about climate change it was estimated that in 2020 over 66% of 18-24 year olds experience climate anxiety.
“It is the younger generations that will see the greater impacts if we fail to reach [global climate] targets, so it is unsurprising that this, and other interrelated Environment Social Governance (ESG) considerations, are front of mind for many.”
A third of 18- to 24-year-olds have rejected a job offer based on the prospective employers’ environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance in favour of more environmentally friendly roles — fuelling a growing trend dubbed “climate quitting” by KPMG.
A strong ESG proposition can help companies be seen as
proactive
helps attract and retain quality employees,
enhances employee motivation
increases productivity
reduces waste
improves governance
lowers costs
Thus, if 2023 is another hot summer be a proactive employer and look at your employee welfare and consider adopting an ESG strategy.
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