Spanish bars, cafes and restaurants will be required to close their outdoor terraces during heatwaves under new rules designed to protect hospitality workers. The measure applies when the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issues orange or red heat warnings.
The amendment to the National Labour Agreement for the Hospitality Sector (ALEH) was signed on 13 April by trade unions FeSMC-UGT and CCOO Servicios, along with employer associations Hostelería de España and CEHAT. It introduces climate as a factor in the organisation of work.
Under the regulations, businesses must respond to official alerts for extreme heat, heavy rain or snow. Staff carrying out physically demanding tasks, such as waiters carrying trays in the sun, may have shifts changed or be moved indoors. Indoor spaces will remain open.
Employers who breach the rules face penalties of more than €50,000 (£43,000) from labour inspectors for health and safety violations. Last summer, Spain recorded a high of 45.8°C in Jerez de la Frontera on 17 August.
The FeSMC-UGT union described the agreement as a milestone that reaffirms commitment to workers' rights and stability in the sector.
