The Met Office has forecast record-breaking highs of 38C in parts of the UK in the coming week, prompting questions about workplace temperature regulations. On Monday, June 22, Monmouth is expected to be the hottest spot in Wales at 31C, with other parts of Wales ranging between 26C and 30C. Coastal areas in the west are expected to be slightly cooler.
Current Rules on Workplace Temperature
Under the government website's health and safety at work section, it states: "During working hours the temperature in all indoor workplaces must be reasonable." However, there is currently no law for minimum or maximum working temperatures. Guidance recommends a minimum of 16C, or 13C for employees undertaking physical labour, but no maximum temperature threshold exists.
Employers must adhere to health and safety at work legislation, which includes maintaining a comfortable temperature and ensuring clean, fresh air. Workers are encouraged to raise concerns with their employer should the workplace temperature become uncomfortable.
Outdoor Work and Construction Sites
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations stipulate reasonable workplace temperatures for indoor areas of construction sites. Where work takes place outdoors, adequate protection from harsh weather conditions must be provided, and site rest facilities must be kept at an appropriate temperature.
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, employers are obliged to evaluate risks to workers and implement measures to safeguard them. Workplace temperature is among the hazards employers should assess, regardless of whether work is carried out indoors or outdoors.
