Posted: 3:36 PM, July 11, 2022
Working during a heat wave can be too hot to bear.
But no matter how high the temperature rises, workers can’t expect to get time off.
It comes as the UK is gripped by a heatwave, with some places expected to reach sweltering highs of 40C next week.
The hottest day this week is forecast for Sunday, July 17, and the Met Office has issued a rare amber alert warning of “extreme heat” that could cause adverse health effects or even serious illness, including for animals.
Here are your rights when it comes to working in the heat:
what is the law
The gov.uk website states that during working hours “the temperature of all indoor workplaces must be reasonable”.
The guidance suggests a minimum of 16C or 13C if employees are doing physical work.
There are no guidelines for a maximum temperature limit.
What is expected of the employer in hot weather?
Employers must comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act. This includes:
- keeping the temperature at a comfortable level
- providing clean and fresh air
Employees should speak to their employer if the workplace temperature is not comfortable.
What if my work already involves extreme heat?
According to the Health and Safety Executive, in some workplaces extreme temperatures can be created by the work itself, such as in some manufacturing processes.
These temperatures can lead to serious health effects such as heat stress and dehydration if not managed effectively.
Workers should seek advice from their employer.
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