Summer Readiness

Overview

During the summer months, staff working across the network at stations may be exposed to seasonally higher temperatures which can introduce various challenges. It is essential that all team members are adequately prepared to work safely and effectively in these conditions. Hot weather can impact not only staff wellbeing, but also customer comfort and operational readiness. The following guidance sets out expectations for staff conduct, self-care, and customer support during hot weather to ensure safety, professionalism, and excellent service delivery.

How

Staff working at stations during periods of hot weather must take proactive measures to stay cool, hydrated, and maintain vigilance to support customers who may be affected by the heat. Key considerations include:

Personal Hydration and Health

• Drink water regularly throughout your shift; avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks as these can worsen dehydration.
• If you feel thirsty, you are already behind in your fluid intake—aim to drink small amounts consistently.
• Use a refillable bottle and ensure regular access to drinking water.
• Take breaks in shaded or well-ventilated areas where possible.
• Monitor yourself for signs of dehydration such as dizziness, headaches, and lethargy.

Uniform and Appearance

• Follow the company’s Hot Weather Policy when locally invoked and decide whether to remove your tie or cravat.
• It is advisable to not wear pullovers, fleecingtons or jackets during the day.
• Company-issued caps can be worn when working outside in direct sunlight.

Maintaining Alertness and Managing Fatigue

• High temperatures can disturb sleep and lead to fatigue. Be aware of signs such as yawning, wandering thoughts, and eye strain.
• Sleep in a cool, dark room (18ºC or below) and avoid caffeine, alcohol, or heavy meals before bed.
• Where possible begin your day with light exercise to improve alertness.
• Eat balanced meals and avoid sugar-heavy snacks which may lead to energy crashes.

Customer Safety and Support

• Be proactive in identifying and assisting customers who appear unwell due to heat.
• Use public announcements to encourage hydration and advise unwell passengers to seek assistance at the station rather than boarding a train.
• Be especially vigilant during peak times or disruptions when crowding may exacerbate heat-related issues.
• If customers are stranded during a train evacuation, provide welfare support including water and travel information, especially for vulnerable individuals.
• Ensure stocks of bottled water are adequate—inform your SDM or RSA if supplies run low.

Behavioural Awareness

• Remind customers to remain behind the yellow line and avoid standing too close to the edge, especially when stations are busier or less shaded.
• Summer weather may increase the presence of intoxicated customers, apply the hands-off policy and contact BTP if needed. Always prioritise staying safe and avoiding conflict, but do report any concerns regarding your safety, or the safety of customers.

Operational Awareness

Be aware of summer-related issues such as:

• Track defects due to heat causing rail expansion or buckling — report any concerns raised by customers about bumps or noises immediately.
• Trespass or vandalism — more likely in warmer months. Report all suspicious activity via the usual channels.
• Lineside or sleeper fires — report any signs of smoke or smouldering immediately to the Signaler and then ARL Control.
• Overgrown vegetation that may obstruct driver visibility should be reported to Carlisle or ARL Control as appropriate.

If you require any further assistance, then please contact your line manager at your earliest convenience