Welcome to August’s edition of Forrest Scene
- Sophie Forrest
- Aug 12
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Are you sitting comfortably?
What is the ideal sitting position to maintain while working at a desk? What are the long-term consequences of improper sitting? How can I improve my sitting posture during work? These are some common questions we receive at ForrestHR.
Our partners at Humanscale are leaders in designing and manufacturing ergonomic products that enhance health and comfort in the workplace. They offer award-winning office solutions, including self-adjusting chairs, sit/stand desks, monitor arms, and task lighting, all designed to encourage movement and support users in every position.
But creating the optimal workspace goes beyond just having the right equipment. Would you like to know how to set up your desk for maximum comfort and productivity? Read on to discover more in our upcoming training with Humanscale.
Humanscale: Ergonomics in Action
This October, we’re giving you the chance to learn directly from industry-leading experts about how to design and set up the ideal working environment. Whether you're a Facilities Manager or an Office Manager looking to create an optimal workspace, this interactive training will give you the knowledge and confidence to take control of your workplace ergonomics. With expert guidance from Humanscale, you'll learn practical, actionable steps to improve your team's workstation setup.
Spaces are limited, so contact us to find out more or secure your place today.
Why Timely Legal Support Matters
Recent headlines have highlighted a case where long-standing workplace abuse went largely unaddressed due to missed time limits on discrimination claims. While many allegations were dismissed, procedural failures and mishandling of grievances resulted in a £361,000 constructive dismissal payout.
This case reinforces three critical legal points for employers:
Strict time limits apply – Discrimination and harassment claims must usually be raised within three months.
Procedural fairness is essential – Mishandled grievances and unfair investigations can breach employment contracts.
Tribunal claims are costly – Procedural errors can expose businesses to significant compensation awards.
If your business is unsure about its grievance or disciplinary procedures, seeking expert legal guidance early can prevent costly mistakes. Forrest Legal can review your processes and help you stay compliant with tribunal risks.
Too Hot to Work?
We've all been there – sitting in an office or workspace that feels more like a sauna, and someone asks the age-old question:"Is there a legal temperature where we can go home?"
The answer might surprise you. While thermal comfort and environmental hazards are covered under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, and employers are legally required to carry out general risk assessments, there is no legal maximum indoor or outdoor temperature set for workplaces in the UK.
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 require employers to maintain a "reasonable" temperature. The guidelines only set minimums, and HSE advises employers to manage the risks when working in hot conditions.
Practical control measures can include:
Using fans, air conditioning, blinds, or improved ventilation
Providing easy access to drinking water
Allowing regular breaks in cooler areas
Relaxing dress codes in hot weather
Monitoring indoor temperatures to keep conditions as comfortable as possible
So, while no magic number sends everyone home, your employer has a legal responsibility to assess and manage heat in the workplace to keep you safe and comfortable.
Our CEO, Sophie Forrest-Lavery, will be featuring in the latest issue of the Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine.
The article highlights a new and exciting partnership between Forrest Group and Humanscale. You can check out the article online and hard copy next week..
Burnout is a hot topic in 2025, and according to Breathe, only 35% of UK workers use all their holiday days. Even more concerning, 81% of people agree or strongly agree that they experience burnout, exhaustion, or poor mental health when they can’t take time off work.
Monitoring employee wellbeing—whether it’s holiday usage, performance, or overall happiness through tools like a Net Promoter Score—is crucial to creating a healthier, more productive workplace.
How are you managing holiday within your business? If you are not already using a simple online solution for holiday bookings, get in touch to see how Breathe can help, and also take advantage of our special offer.
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