Wales has seen its hottest day on record already this week, with the temperature rising to 37.1°C in Hawarden, Flintshire.
The Met Office issued an ‘extreme heat’ warning and a temperature of 40.3°C was recorded in Lincolnshire on Tuesday afternoon.
It's likely that the recorded high heats this week are going to become more and more common in summers to come, you should find out what your rights are in preparation for the next heatwave.
Are there Temperature Limits for Working?
For those fortunate enough to work in air-conditioned offices or cooler homeworking environments this may not be so much of a problem. But spare a thought for those in uniform, PPE or smart business attire, or for those having to carry out physically demanding work in stifling conditions with little respite.
Some might be surprised to learn there is currently no legal maximum temperature in workplaces in the UK. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states that temperatures in office environments must be ‘reasonable’ for staff to work, while the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has called for a maximum working temperature of 30°C to be introduced. But unless the law changes, millions will be relying on their employers to take appropriate steps to make the 9-5 an altogether more chilled affair.
Here are some practical steps employers might wish to take to make their workers’ experience of dealing with the heat at work that bit more possible:
- Consult with staff about the office temperature, taking on board feedback and making changes where possible.
- Investigate ways to cool the workplace, such as fans or air conditioning.
- Consider relaxing staff dress codes, even if just as a temporary measure.
- Keep the workforce hydrated; perhaps the budget might stretch to bottled water or even a round of ice lollies?
- Allow staff to make use of annual leave, time off in lieu (TOIL), flexi-time, and remote working or homeworking where business demand allows.
Howells Can Help
For more information about this and any other HR / Employment Law matters, please get in touch and speak to our experts.
