As Britain’s workers find themselves at the peak of another August heat wave, the TUC is renewing it’s call for a legal maximum for workplace temperatures. While there is a legal minimum temperature below which no-one should have to work, there is no equivalent if it gets too hot.

Too much heat can cause fatigue, extra strain on the heart and lungs, dizziness and fainting, or heat cramps due to loss of water and salt. Hot, dry air can increase the risk of eye and throat infections, and breathing problems such as asthma and rhinitis.

The TUC is calling for a maximum working temperature of 30oC, or 27oC for those doing strenuous work. When the heat hits the maximum, employers should reduce the temperature, with, for example, fans or air conditioning. Workers, whose exposure to heat cannot be reduced, should be provided with adequate breaks and offered job rotation. Hot temperatures cause injuries and illness at work. Employees suffering in sweltering workplaces run the risk of:

· Heat stroke and dehydration

· Tiredness leading to accidents

· Irritability and the threat of violence

· Higher stress levels, with enhanced risks of mental and physical illness

Call 0870 750 1360 for more information or alternatively click here to contact us.

As announced in the 2005 Budget, with effect from 7 April 2005, the installation of air source heat pumps in residential accommodation and certain charity buildings will become subject to the reduced VAT rate of five per cent.

This will provide a welcome reduction in cost to consumers installing heat pump air conditioning systems to domestic homes in the UK - In most cases it will be cheaper for consumers to fit heat pump systems rather than cooling only systems.

Call 0870 750 1360 for more information or alternatively click here to contact us.

Call 0870 750 1360 for more information or alternatively click here to contact us.

Unilever PLC the world's leading supplier of fast-moving consumer goods award Climate Facilities the contract to air condition the prestigious “Four Acres”. The 39 bedroom grade two listed building is used as the Unilever International Management Training Centre.

ASIG the aviation industries leading provider of commercial aviation services awarded Climate Facilities the contract to air condition their European head office based in Egham Surrey.

Climate Facilities new website goes live showing all our services for “The Ultimate Environment”.