As spring gives way to summer, we must stay prepared for whatever the season brings – especially when it comes to periods of intense heat. MeteoSwiss declares a heatwave when average temperatures exceed 25 °C for at least three consecutive days.
To help protect personnel during such events, CERN introduced its dedicated Heatwave Action Plan in 2023. This plan is only activated when an official heatwave is declared by MeteoSwiss, whose forecasts are closely monitored by the HSE unit. It sets out a range of preventive and corrective measures aimed at reducing the risks associated with prolonged high temperatures. Some of these measures may be adapted according to the operational needs of individual services.
When a heatwave is forecast, the activation and deactivation of the Heatwave Action Plan will be communicated via:
- the home.cern and hse.cern websites
- the CERN campus app
- posters and messages displayed on restaurant and entrance screens.
Full details of the Heatwave Action Plan are available on the dedicated webpage.
In addition, the “Beat the heat” tips offer helpful advice on staying comfortable and safe in hot conditions – both during heatwaves and in everyday warm weather.
At CERN, safety is always a priority – whatever the season.