Summer is here, bringing with it longer days, brighter weather and a welcome boost in mood and energy. For many, it’s a season to enjoy but for others, it signals the return of hay fever and seasonal allergies.

Red eyes, blocked noses and persistent coughs can quickly impact comfort, productivity and attendance in the workplace. For dealers, this presents a valuable opportunity to support customers in preparing their environments for allergy season – helping to reduce absences and keep teams feeling their best.

Seasonal allergies affect a significant portion of the UK workforce each year. High pollen counts can lead to increased sick days, reduced concentration and lower productivity. Even employees who remain at work may struggle with symptoms that affect their performance.

Maintain and Refresh Air Systems

One of the first and most important steps is ensuring that air conditioning and air purification systems are properly maintained. After months of winter inactivity these systems can accumulate dust, mould spores, bacteria and other contaminants. When units sit idle, moisture can build up internally, creating an ideal environment for microbial growth. Once switched back on, these particles can be circulated throughout the workspace, potentially worsening allergy symptoms rather than alleviating them.

Dealers should encourage customers to:

• Carry out a full inspection and professional cleaning of systems
• Replace or upgrade filters where necessary (e.g. HEPA filters)
• Use specialised cleaning products designed to remove bacteria and mould

Reduce the Risk of Pollen Entering the Workplace

While airborne pollen is unavoidable during peak seasons, there are several ways it can enter and accumulate indoors, often unnoticed. Pollen can be carried in on clothing, shoes, bags and even hair, eventually settling into carpets, upholstery and surfaces.

To help minimise the impact of pollen and airborne allergens in the workplace, dealers can recommend a range of practical solutions. These include installing entrance matting systems to trap pollen and debris at the door, as well as encouraging regular vacuuming with high-efficiency filters to prevent particles from recirculating. Opting for hard flooring in high-traffic areas can also make cleaning more effective compared to carpets. In addition, promoting consistent cleaning schedules during peak pollen periods can significantly reduce allergen build-up. Further improvements can be achieved by installing air purifiers in key areas to capture airborne particles, and by keeping windows closed during peak pollen times, typically in the early morning and evening.

Creating a Healthier, More Comfortable Workplace

Summer should be a time when workplaces thrive. Increased natural light and improved morale often lead to higher productivity and better engagement. However, for employees affected by allergies, the season can be challenging without the right support in place.

By helping customers reduce allergen exposure and maintain clean environments, dealers can play a key role in creating more breathable workspaces. The result? Happier employees, fewer absences and a workplace where everyone can enjoy the benefits of summer without the burden of seasonal allergies.