With UK temperatures currently reaching 37°C amidst the heatwave sweeping across Europe, questions have been raised about whether it is in fact too hot to work.
Regulation 7 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 provides that “During working hours, the temperature in all workplaces inside buildings shall be reasonable.” However, there is no agreement as to what constitutes “reasonable” which may lead to employees working in temperatures which are uncomfortable for them.
The Approved Code of Practice (“the APoC”) suggests that the “temperature inside the workplace should provide reasonable comfort without the need for special clothing” but there is no legislation setting minimum or maximum acceptable temperatures. The APoC does suggest a minimum acceptable temperature of 16°C, or 13°C if the employee is doing physical work, but does not suggest a maximum temperature.
With heatwaves becoming increasingly common in recent years, it is worth consideration by the Government as to what maximum working temperatures in the workplace there should be. This is required to ensure that employees do not suffer unduly in the heat.
For now though, many may be sad to hear that employees won’t be being sent home from work due to the heat!
If you require further information on the above, please contact us by calling 01206 700113 or email [email protected].