Britain's heatwave is expected to continue until the weekend, raising problems for small business owners, particularly those who operate from offices without air conditioning.

Tuesday was the hottest day of the year so far with a temperature of 31.8C, and with staff having to work in uncomfortable conditions business owners must ensure that they do everything possible to assist their staff in such conditions.

Investing in fans, ensuring supplies of cold water are available, giving staff extra 5 minute breaks and rotation of jobs can all ensure staff morale and productivity are maintained in these testing times.

Although there is a legal minimum indoor temperature limit of 13C for cold conditions there is no similar legal restriction for when the workplace becomes too hot.