How to navigate the summer safely together and ensure comfortable work during hot spells

When do we take extra measures? 

We follow the guidelines issued by the Belgian Royal Meteorological Institute (KMI). A heatwave is defined as a period when temperatures of 25°C or higher are forecast for at least five consecutive days, with at least three of those days reaching 30°C or higher. However, even outside an official heatwave, persistently high temperatures may make work shifts considerably more strenuous. That is why these precautionary measures can also be applied during other spells of hot weather. 

Health and safety at work are crucial 

Every day, our household helps work with great dedication and enthusiasm to keep homes tidy and cared for. On hot days, their tasks may require a different approach. The below guidelines are part of the heat map that our health and safety department has created for the benefit of our household helps and customers. 

For example, strenuous outdoor tasks such as cleaning windows or scrubbing patios in direct sunlight must be postponed until a cooler time of day. In addition, work should be adjusted to the indoor temperature of homes as much as possible. More demanding tasks are spread out, cooler rooms are prioritised and sufficient time is allowed for rest breaks. It goes without saying that staying well-hydrated is very important. 

You can help too 

Let’s all work together to create a safe workspace. As a customer, you can make a big difference with just a few small changes.  For example, you can open windows and doors in the morning or during cooler periods, so that the temperature in the home remains more comfortable. Partially closing the shutters or curtains also helps to keep the heat out. If you have a fan, you are more than welcome to use it to provide extra cooling. In addition, we ask that you always give your household help access to fresh tap water and to understand that they may need to take occasional short breaks on hot days. 

Respect and cooperation are key 

Daenens knows that a strong cooperation is based on mutual respect. Just as our household helps give their very best every day, we count on the understanding and cooperation of our customers during hot spells. By respecting a few simple agreements together, we ensure that household helps can continue to work safely, healthily and comfortably, even on hot summer days. Thank you for joining us in paying attention to this. 

Practical tips for hot days 

For household helps 

• Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after work. 

• Take a short break every hour to cool down. 

• Postpone heavy outdoor tasks in direct sunlight. 

• Spread heavy household tasks over the entire work shift.  

• Work in cooler rooms as much as possible and avoid working for long periods in direct sunlight. 

For customers 

• Open windows and doors when it is cooler outside than inside. 

• Partially close shutters or curtains to keep the heat out. 

• Always provide your household help with access to fresh tap water. 

• Use a fan where possible.  

• Be understanding if you cleaner needs a short break on hot days.