Spanish bars, cafes, and restaurants will be required to close their outdoor terraces during heatwaves to protect hospitality workers from extreme temperatures. The new regulation, which takes effect following an amendment to the National Labour Agreement for the Hospitality Sector (ALEH), was signed on 13 April by hospitality unions and employer associations.
New Rules for Outdoor Service
Under the updated labour framework, terrace closures will be enforced when the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issues orange or red heat warnings. The measure aims to safeguard staff during increasingly severe summer heat, which in southern Spain can exceed 40°C in July and August. Last summer, a record temperature of 45.8°C was recorded in Jerez de la Frontera on 17 August during a heatwave.
The agreement, driven by trade unions FeSMC-UGT and CCOO Servicios, was reached with employer associations Hostelería de España and CEHAT. It requires businesses to respond to official weather alerts for extreme heat, heavy rain, or snow, and to take protective steps for employees.
Impact on Workers and Customers
Waiters performing physically demanding tasks, such as carrying trays in direct sunlight, may have their shifts altered or be moved indoors temporarily if heat conditions become too intense. For tourists, this means outdoor service may be paused until temperatures drop, unless the terrace has adequate shade or cooling systems.
Indoor spaces will remain open under the regulation. Businesses that violate the rules could face penalties exceeding €50,000 (£43,000) from labour inspectors for breaching health and safety laws, according to Euronews.
The FeSMC-UGT union stated: “This milestone not only highlights the progress made through social dialogue but also reaffirms the commitment of the signatory organisations to continue strengthening a collective bargaining model that guarantees rights, stability, and progress for workers and companies in the sector in the coming years.”
