Men more likely to extend lunch breaks and have a pint during summer

Carried out by One Poll on behalf of air conditioning and heating specialists, Andrews Sykes Hire, the survey found that workers leave the office on average 2.3 days per week during summer, and that the extra 13 minutes adds up to more than an hour wasted per week.

Those aged between 18-24 years old were the most likely to admit lengthening their lunches, although the elder group between 45-54 years took the longest lunch breaks overall, with 12% taking more than 20 minutes during sunny weather.

Comparisons between the sexes revealed that men are 7% more likely to stretch their lunch break – taking on average 12% longer than females, and are also more likely to have an alcoholic drink during their personal downtime.

More than half of 18-24 year olds were found to drink during lunch hours, but the likelihood of this decreased down to 19% for those over the ager of 55.

Formal wear also has a significant impact on staff performance, with more than half of respondents feeling restricted and uncomfortable in the heat, compared to 56% of those who have a casual dress code who reported feeling more content.

Overall, the study found that only 3% of those with a formal dress code are likely to work overtime during the summer, as opposed to 16% of those with a casual dress code.

The Trades Union Congress has already called for changes on lunch breaks and work attire during the summer months in order to help staff feel more comfortable and keep up the staff morale in the office.