Given the predicted exceptionally hot weather forecast over the next few days, with an amber warning in place from the MET office until at least Tuesday night, there may be an increased risk of heat stress or thermal discomfort. Our first priority is to the wellbeing of the BU community and we have created some advice for you to follow.
Our campuses remain open as usual and there are buildings on campus that provide a cool temperature throughout the day – some buildings may be cooler than others. You may wish to consider moving to a cooler space for your own comfort, with plenty of spaces available across all campuses.
Please check your travel routes before travelling to and from campus, as there may be an increased risk of travel disruption during the hot weather.
We have created advice and guidance, which explains the effects of heat stress on the body and includes some sensible advice on what to look out for and details the control measures that may help reduce or remove the risks.
‘Heat stress’ can affect individuals in different ways and some people are more susceptible to it than others.
Typical symptoms are:
- an inability to concentrate;
- muscle cramps;
- heat rash;
- severe thirst – a late symptom of heat stress;
- fainting;
- heat exhaustion – fatigue, giddiness, nausea, headache.
There are a number of things that you can do to reduce heat stress and improve thermal comfort:
- Wear sensible clothing and add or remove layers of clothing depending on how hot or cold you are (with the exception of personal protective equipment [PPE] where required)
- use window blinds/curtains (where available) to cut down on the heating effects of the sun
- drink plenty of water (avoid caffeinated, alcoholic or carbonated drinks)
- if possible, position yourself away from direct sunlight or sources of radiant heat
- take regular breaks to cool down
- opening doors/windows where possible (to allow for a ‘through draught’). Please note that if you are on campus, NO fire doors should be propped or wedged open.
Advice for students required to be outside:
- Remain covered up, by wearing appropriate clothing, including a hat to protect the head from the sun.
- Utilise shade whenever possible, especially during breaks (and where possible, take breaks indoors, in as cool an environment as possible).
- Use a high-factor sunscreen (at least SPF30)
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
Additional information can be found at the following links below:-
- Extreme Weather Policy for Students
- NHS Choices - Heat wave be prepared
- Gov.uk – Heatwave Plan for England
If national advice changes, or if there is a change to this advice, we will communicate with you via the BU website and, if necessary, by email.
