Too Hot to Work? Employer Duties and Cool Solutions

??When is it too hot to work? With temperatures expected to approach 30°C across the UK this week, and London set to be hotter than the Algarve, employers nationwide should take proactive measures to ensure the well-being of their teams.

Employers should treat high temperatures as they would any other workplace hazard.

?? Tips for Dealing with Hot Weather in the Workplace:

1. Keep the Office Cool: While there's no specific legal minimum or maximum temperature for workplaces in the UK, employers must make sure that the environment is reasonably comfortable for employees. If these measures are insufficient and the workplace remains uncomfortably hot, employers should consider whether employees can work in those conditions.
2. Know What's Reasonable: The definition of a reasonable temperature varies depending on the type of work and the working environment. For instance, while offices might find 16°C adequate, more physical jobs could require temperatures around 13°C. Research has shown the comfort zone generally falls between 16-24°C; working above this range increases the risk of heat-related health issues (such as dizziness, nausea and fainting, and ultimately heatstroke).
3. Relaxed Dress Codes: Relaxing dress codes to accommodate hotter weather can help employees stay comfortable and focused. Just make sure to be clear on what's appropriate.
4. Cooling Measures: To maintain a comfortable workplace environment, employers can offer fans if there is no air conditioning, ensure proper ventilation, and provide cooling beverages and breaks. Don't forget to make sure you conduct risk assessments for the equipment used. If these steps do not alleviate the heat and the workplace remains uncomfortably warm, employers should consider whether employees can work in those conditions.
5. Flexible Work Hours: Commuting can be difficult in hot weather. Allowing employees to stagger their start and finish times, and avoiding peak rush hours—especially during the hottest and busiest parts of the day—could alleviate this challenge.
6. Remote Working: Where possible, employers should be flexible with working arrangements and allow people to work from home in very hot weather if they will be more comfortable and productive at home.
7. Fight Fatigue: Heat can reduce concentration and cause fatigue, particularly impacting safety-critical roles. Employers should be vigilant about managing these risks.
8. Consider Vulnerable Staff: Employees with disabilities or health conditions may be more susceptible to heat-related health issues and require additional support and accommodations.
9. Evaluate Workplace Conditions: Older buildings or those with extensive glass surfaces can become excessively hot during heatwaves, necessitating specific attention to cooling measures and risk assessments.
10. Outdoor Workers: Working in extreme heat outdoors can put a lot of stress on the body. Employers should ensure outdoor workers have proper protection from the sun and heat. This means providing shade for cooling down, supplying sunscreen for skin safety, giving out suitable clothing for sun protection, and ensuring there is enough water to prevent dehydration.

Can employees refuse to work if it gets too hot and work from home?

In the UK, if it gets unreasonably hot at work and this becomes a health risk, employees have the right to stop working to protect themselves. This right is protected by the Health and Safety at Work Act, which says employers must provide a safe working place. If cooling measures aren't enough and working from home isn't possible, employees can stop working if it's unsafe for their health.

If an employer punishes an employee for refusing to work due to excessive heat—such as through disciplinary action or reduced pay—employees could file a claim at an employment tribunal.

The law safeguards employees from retaliation for raising health and safety concerns or refusing to work in unsafe conditions, including extreme heat that could compromise their well-being.

Health & Safety Risk Assessments

Treat high temperatures as any other workplace hazard by planning for employee safety, conducting risk assessments, and mitigating identified risks promptly.

Employers must also include pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and employees with health conditions in their risk assessments related to extreme temperatures, providing suitable accommodations where necessary.

For expert health and safety advice or to arrange on-site assessments, our dedicated team of Health & Safety experts is available. Get peace of mind you are taking proactive steps to address heat-related concerns while complying with legal requirements.??Arrange a Callback??

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Disclaimer: The content of this article is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. It is not intended to replace specific advice tailored to your individual circumstances. For guidance on HR, employment law, or health and safety matters or topics mentioned above, especially tailored to your business, we recommend seeking assistance from a qualified Avensure expert here: Contact