Climate minister Katie White has indicated that the UK government is examining options to introduce a maximum workplace temperature limit, following a record-breaking June heatwave that forced schools in Southern England to close. Speaking to The i Paper, White said the government is looking “closely” at improving the nation’s resilience to hot weather, in line with the Climate Change Committee’s (CCC) latest report.
Government Response to Heatwave
White emphasised the urgency of addressing climate change, stating, “It’s sweltering right now… I think it’s a reminder that this isn’t about something in the future; this is about what’s happening right now. Whether it’s around people trying to get their kids to sleep tonight or farmers looking at their crops, worried about the impacts of that.” She referred to the CCC’s report, adding, “We’re looking as a Government closely at those options of how to look at that resilience in the future.”
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), responsible for workplace regulations, currently has “no plans” to introduce a maximum workplace temperature but has not ruled out a limit before the end of this Parliament in 2029. Currently, UK law sets no specific maximum or minimum working temperature. The government website states: “There’s no law for minimum or maximum working temperatures, for example, when it’s too cold or too hot to work.” It adds that guidance suggests a minimum of 16°C (or 13°C for physical work), but there is no guidance for a maximum limit.
Existing Legal Obligations and Calls for Change
Despite the lack of specific temperature limits, employers must comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act, which requires maintaining a comfortable temperature and providing clean, fresh air. The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has led calls for a legal maximum of 30°C for indoor work, or 27°C for strenuous work, arguing that current Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance includes only a minimum temperature.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski has supported the introduction of a maximum working temperature, posting on social media: “This isn't normal. While this government is in chaos, its failure to protect people from extreme heat will cost lives. We need maximum workplace temperatures to protect workers and cool spaces so the vulnerable aren't exposed.”
Impact of the Heatwave
The June heatwave has seen temperature records broken, with schools in Southern England closing due to extreme heat. The CCC’s report highlights the need for greater resilience to hot weather, as climate change increases the frequency and severity of heatwaves. The government’s consideration of a maximum workplace temperature limit reflects growing pressure from unions and environmental groups to protect workers and vulnerable populations from heat-related health risks.
