Firms need to keep their cool to entice staff back

Workplace technology firm Scenariio has urged firms to invest in measures to make their premises cooler if they want to lure staff back into the workplace.

Following the hottest June on record and predictions of more scorching summers to come, the issue of staff comfort during heatwaves has become an immediate challenge for employers, according to Scenariio.

Climate change experts say the situation is only ever going to get worse, with extreme daytime temperatures of 40C – the hottest temperature recorded in the UK in July last year – set to become a common occurrence in Britain by 2050.

While this has serious implications for wildlife and vulnerable people, it could also make summer uncomfortable for employees who are required to work at their company’s premises each day.

A study by the UK Green Building Council found 80% of the buildings that will serve as workplaces in the UK in 2050 have already been built and so may lack the measures needed to keep them cool during heatwaves.

However, Scenariio’s technical director George Pritchard says this is already becoming a serious issue for employees who already sweltering at their desks during heatwaves or desperately seeking cool spots at work.

George said: “2050 may be some way off, but it’s very clear that extreme temperatures are already a part of our British summer, and we know they’re having a direct effect on people’s comfort, their wellbeing and productivity in the workplace.

“We aren’t used to these temperatures in this country and our buildings certainly weren’t designed accordingly, which means they can become intolerably hot during the summer.

“This could jeopardise companies’ efforts to get people back into the workplace after COVID, so employers really need to take measures now to ensure they’re comfortable places to work.

“There is plenty of technology that can help, including sensors which can monitor workplaces to show owners where the hotspots are and where staff are congregating to keep cool.

“This information can help them to understand their premises better so that they can take steps such as redesigning their layout to ensure coming into work during the summer isn’t a miserable experience and their employees would rather avoid.”

These measures will be explored when Scenariio hosts its first-ever Workplace Technology Conference in September at the Chocolate Factory, in Siddals Road, a free event designed for IT and real estate professionals.

A number of companies have already signed up to appear, including event partners, network infrastructure firm Commscope and smartengine by wtec, while guest speakers will discuss issues such as the importance of technology planning and putting technology at the heart of sustainability.

For more information and to book your place visit https://www.workplacetechnology.io/ .