Firms 'must prepare for heatwave'

Companies should make sure that their staff are comfortable during the heatwave this week, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has said.

The union group has called on employers to relax dress codes for workers keeping in mind that temperatures are likely to hit 32 degrees C today (Wednesday, July 1st).

Brendan Barber, general secretary of the TUC, added that such a move would help employees to keep cool during the hot weather and that firms must do their best to avoid staff becoming "overheated".

"Allowing employees to dress down in the current heatwave will prevent them from collapsing at their desks, and could also save companies money as they are able to turn down the air con a notch," the union leader said.

"Clearly vest tops and shorts are not suitable attire for all frontline staff, but those not dealing with the public should be able to discard their tights, ties and suits and opt for more summery clothing this week."

The TUC represents the interests of more than six million workers in the UK, including those doing risk jobs.

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