Motoring expert shares van safety tips for tradespeople6

​​​​​​​During hot weather the industry professionals advise van drivers to use thermal toolboxes, park in the shade, use sunshades and air out the van where possible

Tradespeople are being warned to take several equipment out of their vans to avoid risk of damage as another heatwave is expected to hit the country.

The motoring experts at LeaseLoco.com have shared which items tradespeople should never leave inside of their vans and work vehicles during high temperatures.

Parts of the UK are forecast to see temperatures reach as high as 37°C this month, creating potentially hazardous conditions for tradespeople storing equipment in their vans.

The experts say that equipment stored in the back of the van and away from direct sunlight is still at risk due to vans retaining heat.

They also advise parking in the shade to keep vans as cool as possible. Drivers can also open the doors during breaks for ventilation in order to release any trapped heat.

Reflective sunshades at the front of the van can also keep the sun out and help keep temperatures lower. 

Thermal tool boxes can also offer extra protection for heat-sensitive items such as sealants, adhesives and batteries.

John Wilmot, CEO and founder of car leasing deals site LeaseLoco.com said: “We’re about to experience another heatwave and we could potentially see temperatures hit the high thirties. 

“For tradespeople, it’s important to make sure that nothing stored in your van during this time is at risk of being damaged or causing a fire hazard.

“Products such as paints, sealants and plastic fittings can warp in heat so you’ll want to remove them from your van when possible and store them in a cool and well-ventilated area.

“Pressurised cans, gas bottles and lithium-ion batteries can cause safety risks in hot conditions causing them to overheat, leak and even ignite.”

Equipment you shouldn’t keep in your van during a heatwave: 

Pressurised cans or gas bottles
Always be mindful to remove pressurised cans or gas bottles from your van in extreme temperatures. These can burst or rupture due to the expansion of gas which can cause a fire if kept in a hot environment.

Paints, adhesives and sealants
Many of these products can separate, spoil or become unsuitable for use after being kept in hot environments.  

Plastic pipes and fittings
Fittings made from PVC and MDPE can warp, bend or soften when exposed to heat over time. Heat distortion may not be immediately visible so to be safe, remove these items.

Lithium-ion batteries
High temperatures can cause lithium-ion batteries to leak and ignite which can be extremely dangerous. This applies to spare batteries and those in power tools such as drills.  

First aid kits
Some items in first aid kits, such as bandages, creams, or antiseptic wipes, have temperature-sensitive shelf lives. When exposed to heat for long periods of time, these products can degrade, dry out, and lose their effectiveness.