With temperatures set to hit 37°C in parts of southern England and southeast Wales, and potentially exceeding 38°C later this week, many workers are questioning their rights in the heat. The Met Office has issued warnings, and employment experts are reminding employers of their duty of care.
Neha Thethi, Head of Employment at Lime Solicitors, emphasises that employers must not neglect health and safety responsibilities, even with more remote and hybrid working. She notes that while offices often rely on air conditioning, remote workers may struggle with only open windows, which can be impractical due to noise.
Although there is no legal maximum working temperature, employers have a duty to provide a safe environment. Thethi advises proactive steps such as providing fans, ensuring access to cold water, and relaxing dress codes. She suggests that managers check in with staff daily and encourage hydration and breaks.
For extreme heat, Thethi recommends flexible hours like early starts and late finishes, common in hot countries, to allow rest during the hottest part of the day. She warns that failing to make adjustments could lead to personal injury disputes, especially for workers with conditions like COPD or arthritis.
Ultimately, employee health and safety must be a priority. Employers should consider reasonable adjustments to help staff work safely during the heatwave.
