With temperatures expected to hit the mid-30s Celsius later this week, many workers are questioning whether they must continue working in such extreme heat. A heatwave is forecast to hit the country, with Manchester expected to reach 37C on Thursday, creating uncomfortable and potentially hazardous working conditions.
No Legal Maximum Temperature in the UK
Unlike some other countries, the UK does not have a specific legal limit for workplace temperatures. There is no legally mandated maximum temperature at which employees are automatically sent home from work. However, employers are legally obligated to maintain a reasonable and comfortable temperature in the workplace under health and safety at work law.
Guidance on the gov.uk website states: "During working hours the temperature in all indoor workplaces must be reasonable. There's no law for minimum or maximum working temperatures, for example when it's too cold or too hot to work." The guidance suggests a minimum of 16C, or 13C if employees are doing physical work, but provides no guidance for a maximum temperature limit.
Employer Obligations Under Health and Safety Law
Despite the lack of a specific temperature limit, employers must comply with health and safety at work law. This includes keeping the temperature at a comfortable level and providing clean and fresh air. Employers should assess the risks of high temperatures and implement control measures such as providing ventilation, cooling equipment, or allowing for breaks.
If temperatures become excessively high, creating unsafe or unhealthy conditions, employees may have grounds to raise concerns. Workers who reasonably believe there is "serious and imminent danger" may potentially leave the workplace. Employees are urged to talk to their employer if the workplace temperature is not comfortable.
What Workers Should Do
Employees who are uncomfortable with the heat should first discuss the issue with their employer. If the employer fails to address the problem, workers can contact their local authority or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for advice. The HSE can enforce action if employers are not meeting their legal duties.
