What happens if it is very hot?

If the Volleyball Australia Heat Mitigation Policy is used, the 2026 handbook says:

• Two technical time-outs are played, when the first team reaches 8 and 16 points in a regular set, and at the change of ends in the deciding set.
• Reduced scoring may be introduced, listed in the handbook as "212112" or "181812".
• Matches may be paused or delayed until the heat risk drops to safe levels.

The Tournament Control Committee decides the level of reduction. A change to scoring is never made during a match in progress, and only after all teams have been told before the first point is played.