Thermal Stress
Protecting workers health and comfort from hot and cold working environments.
NOHH Ltd conducts thermal stress testing to assess the impact of heat and cold exposure in workplace environments. This page outlines assessment methodology, regulatory considerations, and how to arrange a structured thermal stress evaluation with our experts.
Why Carry Out Thermal Stress Testing?
Extreme heat or cold can cause serious health risks, including heat stress, heat stroke, hypothermia, and in severe cases even death. Working in thermally challenging environments disrupts normal body function and must be carefully managed to keep employees safe.
Employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, and supporting HSE guidance to assess and control risks from thermal environments. Thermal stress risks may also impact risks form other hazards such as those governed by COSHH, Workplace Noise and Control of Vibration at Work regulations.
Understanding the Thermal Environment
Temperature alone does not define thermal stress. Other key factors include:
Radiant heat sources
Humidity levels
Air movement and ventilation
Building design and spatial layout
Workload and clothing requirements
Thermal discomfort, while not life-threatening, can also reduce wellbeing, performance, and productivity. Complaints such as “too hot,” “too cold,” or irritation linked to poor ventilation are common signs of underlying problems and may contribute to Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).
Our Assessment Approach
NOHH Ltd conducts detailed thermal stress and comfort assessments using state-of-the-art equipment to measure key environmental parameters. Our service includes:
Identifying causes of heat or cold stress and discomfort
Evaluating conditions against UK guidance and international standards (e.g. WBGT index for heat stress)
Providing clear, practical recommendations to reduce risks
Advising on control at source, ventilation, building design, work rotation, PPE strategies, etc
Supporting compliance with relevant health and safety legislation
Protecting Health and Performance
By identifying and addressing thermal stress risks, employers can prevent ill health, improve workplace comfort, and maintain productivity. NOHH Ltd provides the expertise and practical solutions needed to create safer and healthier working environments across the UK.
