An amber weather warning for extreme heat is in place across the UK, with temperatures expected to reach 37C in Liverpool this week. The Met Office has warned of "hot and humid weather" with "exceptionally warm temperatures" both day and night, prompting questions about workplace safety rules during a heatwave.
No Legal Maximum Temperature for Workplaces
Despite the soaring temperatures, there is currently no law specifying a maximum or minimum working temperature in the UK. The government's health and safety guidance states that "during working hours the temperature in all indoor workplaces must be reasonable," but provides no specific figure for when it is too hot to work.
Guidance suggests a minimum of 16C, or 13C for employees doing physical work, but no equivalent maximum exists. Employers are required to stick to health and safety at work law, including keeping the temperature at a comfortable level and providing clean, fresh air.
Employer Responsibilities Under the Law
Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, employers must assess risks to workers and put controls in place to protect them. Temperature is one of the risks employers should assess, whether work is indoors or outdoors.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states: "All workers are entitled to an environment where risks to their health and safety are properly controlled. Heat is classed as a hazard and comes with legal obligations like any other hazard."
Specific Regulations for Construction Sites
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations require reasonable workplace temperatures for indoor areas of construction sites. For outdoor sites, protection from adverse weather must be provided, and rest facilities must be maintained at an appropriate temperature.
Advice for Workers
Employees are urged to talk to their employer if the workplace temperature is uncomfortable. While many offices have air conditioning, those working in shops, restaurants, or outdoors may face greater challenges. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat alerts covering most of England.
Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey advised: "I'm sure many of us will be wanting to get outside and enjoying some of this heat, but it certainly is worth taking care as we could see some impacts around. Water safety as well is going to be paramount if you are by the coast or other water bodies inland."
