Channel Islands and South West workers adapt routines as record June heat hits services

Record June heat forces changes to working routines across Channel Islands and South West

Record-breaking temperatures in late June have forced workers across the Channel Islands and the South West of England to alter routines, employers to revise schedules and organisations to prioritise staff safety, Guernsey Met data and multiple local sources show. Guernsey recorded its warmest June since 1843 with 36.4C on 25 June, while Plymouth reached 31.5C and Bude 31C during the same heatwave.

Outdoor utility teams described heightened risks and practical adjustments. Excavation operator Adrian Riley of Guernsey Electricity said crews increased hydration and mutual care while recognising that water alone was not always sufficient, and the company’s health and safety lead John Tostevin highlighted the challenge of working in black protective overalls near hot engines.

Guernsey Electricity reported providing extra rest breaks and abundant drinking water, and said it is developing new safety measures to enable critical work to continue during extreme temperatures, noting that power restoration duties cannot be postponed.

On Jersey, Lomah Farm’s Ollie Griggs said polytunnels reached 42C and previously hit 50C, prompting earlier start and finish times for staff and added measures such as shading and frequent watering for poultry to protect livestock and workers.

Postal operations also adjusted working hours. Paul Belhomme, Jersey Post director of operations, said sustained high temperatures—unprecedented in his 30-year career—led the service to move start times earlier to keep staff out of peak afternoon heat while maintaining deliveries.

Hospitality and catering staff reported similar coping measures. At Rocquettes Hotel in Guernsey, pastry chef Lornah Ongechi said kitchens kept doors open and supplied drinks, though wearing traditional chefs’ jackets remained uncomfortable. At Anni’s Hideaway, chef Freddie Pereira said brief breaks and iced drinks helped manage heat while continuing service.

Trades and manufacturing faced their own constraints. Jersey blacksmith Joseph Evans compared workplace conditions to a sauna, noting limited cooling options and reliance on short breaks and a single fan to endure welding and forging tasks.

Theatre company Ha Hum Ha adapted performances and backstage arrangements, with producer and actor Ben Kernow saying fight scenes are slowed on very hot evenings and water is discreetly placed around sets to ensure cast hydration while costumes remain largely unchanged for authenticity.

Farming in Devon also required timetable shifts. Amary Farm at Lincombe reported polytunnel temperatures reaching 52C, with grower Will Davis moving harvesting and packing to early mornings and late evenings and using refrigeration to preserve produce picked at dawn.

Across sectors, managers described balancing service obligations with staff welfare, instituting earlier starts, additional breaks, shade, water provision and refrigeration to cope with prolonged heat. Officials and employers emphasized that while operational continuity is necessary, altered routines and protective measures have become essential to maintain safety during the heatwave.