The recent heatwave has reduced office productivity by nearly a quarter according to a survey by Office Angels.

The study found that 78% of employees complained of working environments that stifled their creativity and their ability to get the job done. While 81% said they find it difficult to concentrate at work if the office temperature is higher than the norm and 62% admitted that when it is hot a typical task may take up to 25% longer than usual to complete.

The study also found that 35% of UK offices don’t have air conditioning, however 18% said that heating dilemmas cause confrontation in the office.

Paul Jacobs, managing director of Office Angels, says: “It seems some employers are failing to get the basics right when it comes to keeping their workforce happy. Small gestures make a big difference - allowing staff to dress accordingly to the heat, investing in fans where needed and even encouraging staff to leave on time to enjoy the summer sun, will mean employees are far more comfortable, relaxed and able to get on with the job at hand.”