Each year, thousands of businesses are caught off guard by the first heatwave alerts of summer. With increasingly hot summers and increasingly strict legal obligations, advance preparation is no longer an option—it's a necessity. Here are 7 measures to implement now.
Measure 1: Assess risks in your premises
First and foremost, map out risk areas in your premises: which workstations are exposed to the sun? Where is ventilation inadequate? Which employees work outdoors? This assessment must be integrated into your Single Document for Risk Assessment (DUER).
Measure 2: Implement a written protocol
Your heatwave protocol should include: alert thresholds (Météo France levels), measures triggered at each level, designated responsible persons, emergency contacts (occupational physician, SAMU). This document must be accessible to all supervisors.
Measure 3: Ensure hydration
The law requires providing drinking and cool water to employees. During a heatwave, provide at least 1.5 liters of accessible water per employee per hot day. Frequent water coolers, refrigerated fountains, bottles available.
Measure 4: Adjust working hours
If possible, shift working hours to avoid peak heat (generally between 12 PM and 4 PM). For construction and outdoor work, this is often the most effective and least expensive measure.
Measure 5: Equip your employees with cooling devices
This is where the investment is most tangible. Three complementary solutions depending on the position:
- Neck fan for employees on the move (warehouses, construction sites, home care)
- Mini desk air conditioner for fixed workstations (cash registers, offices, reception)
- Mister for collective spaces (break areas, open-plan offices)
Best'n Deal offers these equipment items for group orders for businesses with sliding scale prices from 5 units and a professional invoice.
Measure 6: Create or designate a cool room
An air-conditioned or naturally cool room must be identified and communicated to everyone. It serves as a refuge during breaks and in case of discomfort. If your building does not have one, an industrial fan + mister in a closed room can temporarily suffice.
Measure 7: Train and educate staff
Your proximity managers must know how to recognize signs of heatstroke (hot and dry skin, confusion, absence of sweating) and emergency procedures. A simple internal note, sent annually before summer, is enough to remind everyone of the essentials.
Summary: HR checklist before summer
- ☐ DUER updated with heat-related risks
- ☐ Heatwave protocol written and distributed
- ☐ Cool water supply guaranteed
- ☐ Schedule adjustments planned if orange/red alert
- ☐ Cooling equipment ordered and distributed
- ☐ Cool room identified and indicated
- ☐ Managers trained in signs of heatstroke
Need to equip your teams before summer? Consult our business offer and receive your quote within 24 hours.