The United Kingdom is preparing for another heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 34 degrees Celsius or higher starting this weekend. Amber heat health alerts have been issued for the east, South East, and South West of England, as well as London, from 12pm on Thursday until 8pm on Tuesday.
Can You Stop Working During a Heatwave?
Many employees mistakenly believe there is a legal maximum temperature for offices and workplaces in the UK. However, there is no specific temperature deemed "too hot" to work. Nevertheless, employers have a legal obligation to ensure staff safety.
Employment lawyer Natalie Peacock, from Rogers and Norton, stated that extreme heat is becoming a growing workplace issue across the country. "Although employers are not obliged to install air conditioning, the law requires employers to take reasonable steps to ensure the workplace is safe," she explained.
Employer Responsibilities
Peacock noted that heat is a foreseeable risk that employers must manage. Failing to do so can amount to a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act. She advised that workers should expect employers to take practical steps during heatwaves, including:
- Allowing extra breaks
- Ensuring staff can stay cool and hydrated
- Carrying out risk assessments regarding hot weather
- Providing facilities for hydration
- Improving workplace ventilation
- Providing shelter or shade for outdoor workers
- Offering free sun cream and fans
Flexible Working Options
Employees struggling with heat may also request flexible hours or permission to work from home during the hottest parts of the day. Peacock added, "To reduce the impact of extreme heat on their workforce, employers may consider simple, temporary adjustments, such as flexible hours for working during cooler parts of the day or agreeing to requests for working from home."
Duties to protect employees continue even when working from home. Employers should carry out homeworking risk assessments and may consider providing fans for employees' homes.
