As the UK heatwave pushes temperatures toward 40°C, many office workers are questioning whether they can wear shorts to work. The Met Office has issued a rare red warning for extreme heat, leading some schools in England and Wales to close early. But for employees, the issue is often less about legality and more about workplace culture or personal style.
Is There a Legal Maximum Temperature for Work?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) confirms: "There's no law for maximum working temperature, or when it's too hot to work, because every workplace is different." Unions like Unison and the TUC have called for a specific legal limit of 30°C (27°C for strenuous work), but no such rule exists. Instead, employers must comply with the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations, which require "a reasonable indoor temperature" and "clean and fresh air."
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, employers must assess risks to workers and implement controls. The HSE advises that temperature is one of those risks, and employers should consult workers on coping with high temperatures.
Can You Refuse to Work in Extreme Heat?
Technically, employees can refuse to work if they believe they are in serious and imminent danger, under the Employment Rights Act 1996. However, Allan McDougall Solicitors warn that this does not guarantee legal protection. They state: "There is no guarantee that should you leave site or refuse to attend work and then be dismissed or subject to detriment, that you would have a legal remedy."
Can You Wear Shorts to Work?
While no law mandates shorts, employers must maintain a reasonable temperature. The HSE says employers may relax dress codes to prevent overheating. Allan McDougall Solicitors note: "Although an employer can compel you to wear a certain uniform or abide by a dress code, depending on the circumstances it may be reasonable for an employer to relax formal dress code policies to reduce the risk of excessive heat."
Fashion experts suggest shorts can be appropriate. Sophie Jordan, menswear buying director at Mytheresa, told Esquire: "It ultimately depends on the culture of the workplace, but shorts can feel entirely appropriate when approached with a more refined sensibility." Kit Swann, fashion editor at Mr Porter, added: "For me, it depends on the shorts and where you work, but largely I don't see a reason why you couldn't wear shorts to the office."
