Some people like working when its hot. Some don't. But as summer temperatures are soaring just at the moment, it is worth reflecting on a company's responsibility to its employees.

There is no legal legal maximum to working temperature. However, health & safety laws say there should be "a comfortable working environment" with "the provision of clean and fresh air".

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) offers guidance to help companies overcome the challenges as temperatures in the UK hit new records. One of its recommendations is to be flexible, perhaps starting earlier and finishing earlier.

Severe weather, such as temperatures significantly above the average, brings into focus the impact weather can have on businesses. FSB research suggests two thirds of its members have been negatively affected by severe weather in the past three years in one way or another – costing each business on average £7,000. Admittedly the severe weather is usually the cold and wet rather than the heat.

Nevertheless, despite the risks and the impact severe weather can have on their trading, only 25% of businesses have a resilience plan in place that specifically includes severe weather.

John Allan, National Chairman for the Federation of Small Businesses, said: “In many businesses the hot weather has boosted sales, but it's important that firms are prepared for the adverse effects of extreme weather too.

"For those employees without air conditioning, experiencing travel chaos to and from work or who work outside, employers will need to be mindful and take action.

"Solutions are available to every type of business and we hope that our advice will assist our members in finding the right way forward for them.”

Steps employers should consider taking for extremely hot weather include:

Explore the possibility of flexible working – eg avoiding travelling during rush hour and working outside when the sun is at its highest

• For those working outside all day, supply sun tan loction and, if possible, shelter
• Ensure a sufficient resilience plan is in place in case work is suspended
  
• Where appropriate, provide air-cooling devices for those working inside
  
• Make sure shade is available
• Allow additional breaks for employees to cool down if necessary
• Provide extra facilities such as water to ensure staff stay hydrated
• Where health & safety allows, dress codes can be relaxed
• Identify employees particularly at risk from heat and ensure specific precautionary measures are in place for them