Extreme heat risk perceptions and readiness in schools

Bibliographic Data

ID22026249
AuthorsPeter Hudson (0000-0001-7877-7854), Paul A Hudson (University of York, corresponding author), Lynda Dunlop (0000-0002-0936-8149, University of York), Maria Turkenburg‐van Diepen (0000-0002-2841-3339, University of York)
Year2026
Volume138
Pages106109
Publication date2026-05-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2212-4209
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.ijdrr.2026.106109
OpenAlexW7140845150
LanguageEN
References cited61

The increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves poses significant challenges to schools, particularly in terms of ensuring the safety and well-being of pupils and staff. This paper investigates the perceptions of extreme heat risks and the readiness of schools to adapt to such conditions in the United Kingdom (UK), focusing on the experiences and viewpoints of schoolteachers and wider school staff. A survey was disseminated through multiple avenues to gather a diverse sample of teachers and school staff to assess the perceived impacts of heatwaves, their perceptions of the associated risks, and the measures currently in place to mitigate these effects. Findings reveal a degree of awareness regarding heat-related risks among school staff (e.g., heat risks, increased disruptive behaviour, worsening educational environment). Key adaptation measures include relaxation of uniform policies, increased hydration breaks, and the provision of shaded areas. However, these actions are mainly behavioural measures and very few building-level adaptation measures were implemented or planned. The sample overall reports a belief that the adaptation measures at their disposal can limit the risks associated with high temperatures, and that they could implement other measures, but that they are deemed to be too difficult/expensive to employ. The study underscores the urgent need for systemic support for adaptation education amongst school leaders and investment in sustainable adaptation strategies to enhance resilience against extreme heat in UK schools. Recommendations for policymakers and schools are provided to improve readiness and ensure a safer learning environment in the face of rising temperatures

Extreme heat · Occupational safety and health · Perception · Poison control · Risk perception · Climate Change and Health Impacts · Educational Environments and Student Outcomes · Human Factors and Ergonomics · Thermoregulation and physiological responses