Summer in the office – cool tips for working in the summer
Summer is wonderful when you can enjoy days off work at the lake, in the garden or in the mountains. But not everyone is lucky enough to be on holiday when it’s hot. Working in high temperatures or even under the scorching sun is not only unpleasant, but it can also affect performance and lead to complaints such as headaches, circulatory problems, dizziness or nausea. Some simple tips can make the workplace climate a little better, whether in the office or outdoors.
When you arrive at the office in the morning, open all of the windows and let the fresh morning air into the room. After airing the room, the temperature will stay comfortable for a while. When it starts to get warmer, lower the shutters and close the windows to block out the heat.
Air conditioners and fans are a godsend against the heat. However, make sure that they are not set too strong or too cool. Otherwise people could catch a cold if they are sitting in a draught. When outside temperatures are particularly high, the room temperature should be no more than 6 °C lower.
Don't wear constricting or tight-fitting clothes for the office. Wear loose clothing instead. It might be possible to adjust the dress code at work for the hottest weeks of the year. If ties and long sleeves or trousers can be done away with, the body will build up less heat.
Drink at least two litres of still or low-carbonated mineral water, unsweetened teas or diluted fruit juices every day. Drink regularly and opt for room-temperature drinks rather than drinks from the fridge, or leave cold water from the water dispenser on the desk for a while. If ice-cold liquid enters the stomach, the blood vessels constrict and the body heats up from the inside.
When it’s hot, avoid fatty or spicy foods that put unnecessary strain on the circulation. Eat cold, light food with as much water and minerals as possible, such as fruit, salads and vegetables. Several smaller portions spread throughout the working day are easier to digest than one big meal at lunchtime.
If possible, start work earlier in the morning and take advantage of flexitime to escape from the hot office earlier in the afternoon than usual. It’s better to stay in the shade during your coffee or lunch break rather than sunbathing.
If you work outdoors you should also carry out physically strenuous activities in the cooler morning hours and, if possible, not under the blazing sun. However, if you can’t avoid direct UV rays in your work, wear light-coloured, loose clothing that releases sweat and covers your body, as well as head and neck coverings. Use good quality sunscreen and protect your eyes with sunglasses. And drink plenty!
With these tips we wish you a wonderful summer – stay cool!
