According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) there is no min or max temp to work, but employers are required to ensure workplaces are at a reasonable temperature during a heatwave
Due to the heatwave warning in place until Tuesday 19 July, HSE is reminding employers of their duty to ensure workplaces are at reasonable temperatures, despite the fact that there is no max temp to work.
Although there is no max temp to work, all workers are entitled to an environment where risks to their health and safety are properly controlled – Heat is classed as a hazard and comes with legal obligations.
Why is there no maximum temperature for workplaces?
There’s no max temp to work because workplaces with hot processes such as bakeries or foundries would not be able to comply with such a regulation – they use other measures to control the effects of temperature.
John Rowe, HSE’s Acting Head of Operational Strategy, said: “With a heatwave warning in place, its vital employers are aware of their responsibility to ensure their indoor workplaces are at a reasonable temperature.
Workers should talk to their employer if they have concerns related to health and safety during a heatwave
“All workers have a right to a safe working environment and their employers should discuss working arrangements with them.
“If workers have specific queries or concerns relating to health and safety in their workplace, they should talk to their employer.”
