A third (34%) of workers would also likely take an extended lunch break during hot weather, research by the payroll resources provider Global Payroll Association (GPA) revealed.
How can HR ensure employee productivity and engagement during heatwaves?
HR leaders should create and implement policies ahead of time, to ensure that employees remain engaged during hot weather, said the GPA's CEO, Melanie Pizzey.
Pizzey told HR magazine: “Ensuring that the company has a clear extreme weather policy is definitely best practice.
“Allowing employees to be flexible with their start and finish times on hot days will, for example, enable them to start a little earlier in order to clock off at three or four and enjoy the late afternoon sunshine.
Read more: Extreme weather: should HR have an adverse weather policy?
“Hot days are few and far between in the UK, so why not show a bit of kindness? Employers can also offer remote working on the hottest days, especially if office spaces aren’t well equipped to deal with the heat. This will help employees avoid an uncomfortable commute.
“Businesses should be able to trust their staff to stay productive at home, and get their work done without constant oversight or micro-management.”
HR leaders shouldn’t see hot weather as a threat, but offer solutions to their employees, added Cassie Gasson, co-CEO of learning technology company, Thrive.
Speaking to HR magazine, she said: “For HR leaders, hot weather shouldn’t be treated as a productivity threat. It’s an ideal opportunity to strengthen culture and trust. Offer flexibility. Encourage breaks. Consider implementing specific flexible working policies such as adjusted work hours, extended lunch breaks, and remote working options during particularly hot days. Use your office as a comfortable, optional resource rather than a mandatory setting.
“If someone wants to take a long lunch in the sun and log back on later, that’s not skiving, that’s balance. With the right culture, clear expectations and some seasonal flexibility, everyone benefits.”
Research findings by the GPA also found that one in 10 employees are likely to ‘pull a sickie’ on hot days.
Read more: 'HR's growth risks productivity': HR leaders react
HR and business leaders should show their employees that they trust them, stated Ryan Tahmassebi, people science director at employee engagement platform Workbuzz.
Speaking to HR magazine, he said: “If someone wants to step away during peak heat to go for a swim or enjoy a cold drink in the sun and log back on later, let them. Show them you trust them to effectively self-manage. Managers should role model that mindset, and employees must reciprocate with open communication and delivery on commitments. Trust cuts both ways.
“This is also a great moment for HR to step up and lean in. Most importantly, it reinforces an important message: we trust you to do great work, and we care about your wellbeing. That’s what keeps people engaged, motivated and loyal year-round."
The GPA commissioned ProperPR, to survey 1,004 workers via survey platform Find Out Now in April 2025.
